When Are Children with Down Syndrome Ready for School?
Casal dels Infants – Receiving optimal and inclusive education is a fundamental right for every child, including those with Down syndrome. However, many parents still wonder: when is the right time to enroll a child with Down syndrome in school? The answer is not the same for everyone, as it largely depends on each child’s individual readiness.
According to Vitriani Sumarlis, SPsi, MSi, Psychologist, an expert in Curriculum Implementation, Monitoring & Evaluation at Sekolah Cikal, the readiness of a child with Down syndrome to start school greatly depends on their individual condition.
She explained that Down syndrome can usually be detected as early as during pregnancy through initial screenings. This provides parents with the opportunity to begin appropriate preparation as early as possible.
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“In terms of education, I believe it really depends on the child’s readiness. Children with Down syndrome often have physical conditions that require special attention, such as heart problems or delays in motor development,” said Vitriani in her statement on Friday (May 20, 2026).
She further added that a child’s physical condition should be managed first, including their motor skills. Afterward, parents and professionals can jointly determine the most appropriate time for the child to start school, based on the priorities that have been agreed upon.
Vitriani emphasized that early preparation is crucial for children with Down syndrome. Parents should provide appropriate interventions and gradually conduct therapies that meet the child’s specific needs.
Early interventions, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive stimulation, will help improve the child’s readiness in various areas. These areas include motor, cognitive, and social-emotional skills. Children with Down syndrome develop good physical endurance and achieve optimal growth through consistent support and intervention. These developments help them prepare themselves better to face school activities.
“Education for children with special needs must consider several factors, such as sensory-motor maturity, cognitive abilities, and social-emotional readiness. Proper stimulation from an early age will greatly accelerate their readiness,” Vitriani explained.
In addition to professional intervention, emotional support from parents is a key factor in preparing children with Down syndrome for school. A supportive and loving environment will help build the child’s self-confidence. This foundation will enable them to adapt more easily when they begin their educational journey.
With thorough preparation, appropriate interventions, and strong family support, children with Down syndrome have a great opportunity to receive a quality education. These efforts will also help them pursue a bright and successful future.
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