Educational/support group for Latino families of children with Down syndrome

Experiences and observations based on an ongoing parent education-support group for Mexican-origin Latino parents of children with Down syndrome were described. Culturally mediated concepts were discussed in terms of their relevance to specific aspects of group functioning, including group structure, membership, and leadership. Problems of particular concern to this population that might adversely affect maintenance and growth of the group were also examined. Finally, the potential value of such support groups for this parent population were considered as were guidelines for enhancing the group experience.