Children with Down Syndrome are language delayed. This has to do with
both physical and mental limitations. Printed words can help a child break
down the complex process of language by giving visual cues. But before a
child can say a word they must first be able to vocalize. Teaching the
alphabet is a great way to help with vocalization. And before a child can
vocalize they must hear the sound numerous times. Studies have shown that
children as young as 6 months are already listening to and organizing
sounds for later use. It is beneficial to start presenting them with
visual cues (the alphabet) and their sounds as soon as possible after
birth. Once a child has mastered vocalization they then can start on
words. Again visual cues (words) can help a child. If the visual cue
corresponds with the phonetic letters being pronounced then the child has
the best chance for remembering and pronouncing that word. What this means
is that a child will be able to use the sight of the word to help in
pronouncing it. This is where a video tape can be most beneficial. When we
pronounce a phonetic portion of a word, those letters are visually
highlighted on the screen.