About research-led enablement
Helping individuals with Down syndrome and their families to flourish
This is a free, independent library of evidence for the people raising and teaching children with Down syndrome.
'I Show You' is the child's voice: what they show us every day. But, try as we might, we don't always know how to respond, or whether our response makes a difference, especially if it 'hasn't worked in the past'.
The evidence says it can. But first, we need to understand the research so that we can unlock the response our child needs.
What you will find here
I collect useful evidence that can help parents, teachers and assistants try approaches that may work for an individual with Down syndrome (DS). Thankfully, recent research has shifted towards supporting what's right with our children, rather than focusing solely on deficits. We shouldn't ignore support needs, but we do need to do both: recognise their strengths and provide the support they need to reach even further.
The second pillar draws on Positive Education, informed by Positive Psychology. We need to combine a Down syndrome strengths-based approach with character strengths activation so that we can broaden and build psychological resources. In plain English, like all people, individuals with Down syndrome learn best when they feel happy. So let's help them access that feeling—and grow it.What this isn't
Who is behind it
I'm Kuldeep Bahia, a parent of a child with Down syndrome and a researcher in Applied Positive Psychology.
My son has taught me far more than any journal article ever could. The research helps me understand why something might work. He teaches how I can make it work for him.
Let your child show you, find the 'why' from the research and figure out 'how' together. I'm only just getting started, I hope you find it useful. If you'd like to get in touch, find me on LinkedIn (details below).
Kuldeep Bahia, MBA. EMCC Senior Practitioner. Applied Positive Psychology Practitioner. DS Advocate, and parent of a child with Down syndrome.