Chattanooga Times Free Press

Love is best present for grandson with Down syndrome

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DEAR ABBY: We have three grandchild­ren and are due to make our annual visit. Two of the children are easy to plan for, and we have good relationsh­ips with them. The third is a 12-yearold boy with Down syndrome, and we struggle with how to deal with him — what to do and what to buy him. Any ideas? — UNSURE IN THE SOUTH

DEAR UNSURE: The most important thing you can bring with you on your visit is a heart filled with love and the determinat­ion that your grandson will know you love him. Spending

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby. com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

For an excellent guide to becoming a better conversati­onalist one-on-one time together would make him feel special. Every child needs validation and affection on their journey toward adulthood. With the self-confidence it brings, Down syndrome children can live full and happy lives.

The questions you’re asking me are ones your grandson’s parents can answer for you. What he could use and various activities you can share should be easy questions for them to answer.

I have printed a wonderful poem on this subject in my column before. It was written by Edna Massimilla, and I think it is timely. Edna is 102 now and still as energetic and “with it” as ever. Read on:

and a more sociable person, order “How To Be Popular.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $7 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Popularity Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)

 ??  ?? Dear Abby Written by Jeanne Phillips
Dear Abby Written by Jeanne Phillips

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