13 - 18

Mood swings, pushing the boundaries, tiredness, confusion, crushes, first loves, introspection and spending ages in the bathroom.  These may occur a little later and last longer in some people but your teenager will essentially be like other teenagers.  Sexuality, a desire for greater independence, a need for more personal space, encouraging good personal hygiene, explaining and facilitating relationships, and fostering self esteem are some of the issues that need to be thought of at this point in your child's life.  If you want further information about teenagers with Down's syndrome, talk to our Helpline staff on 0208 614 5100 or 0333 121 2300 (not premium rate)*.  Also take a look at our Adolescence and Sexuality information sheet.

*Our new 0333 number is charged at national rate for both mobile and landline calls, unlike 0845 numbers which can be expensive from a mobile, your calls are included within your minute allowance with no premium.