What is Down Syndrome and How Does it Affect Communication?
Down Syndrome occurs when a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21 (called a trisomy). It causes a similar array of physical changes in those affected, such as a flattened face, short neck, small hands and feet, etc.
Down Syndrome does not greatly affect the ability to communicate in a mental sense; those affected can be very sociable. But the physical changes wrought often cause difficulty with speech and language, particularly with allowing their speech to be clear and understandable. Issues with breathing along with problems involving the coordination and strength of the muscles involved with speech are all contributing factors.
What is Autism and How Does it Affect Communication
Autism is a developmental disability that can drastically affect the way those with it interact with and participate in the world around them. They might have trouble making eye contact with others, as well as myriad of issues involving relating and interacting with their peers. Some people with Autism are non-verbal, meaning they cannot or will not communicate using their voice. Environmental stimuli, such as sounds, smells, tastes, or feelings can prove to detrimental or distracting.