James Robinson attends your mainstream preschool 5 mornings a week. You have been assigned as a key worker to James who is 3 years old and has Down Syndrome. James lives with his parents and his younger brother Sean and the family live locally. James was born with two holes in his heart and had medical treatment in the hospital when he was two; he often has chest infections and does not attend on these occasions. From the start of this year, he has not had any substantial health problems.

James’s parents have witnessed the positive effects of preschool and are eager to support James when at home. James is a very physically active child and very able in many areas. He loves music, small world animals, looking at books sharing books, as well as being generally curious about everything. He has a pleasant disposition and enjoys coming to preschool.

His language is delayed and he uses pointing, facial expressions, gestures, and body language with words to get what he wants. When he becomes tired he may have a ‘tantrum’ due to his inability to communicate. He has very good gross motor skills but finds it difficult to take turns and can be a bit ‘overeager’ with other children when he is rushing to get on something outdoors. He is helpful and cooperative and very inquisitive.