True or false: Children with Down syndrome lack the ability to weight shift and balance.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Balance and weight shifting are skills that are commonly delayed in children with Down syndrome due to factors like hypotonia and ligamentous laxity, which can make postural control and rapid shifts in weight less efficient. However, they are not absent abilities. With targeted therapy and practice, many children with Down syndrome can learn and improve weight-shifting strategies and dynamic balance. Early on they may rely on a wider base of support, hip or step strategies, and trunk involvement to maintain stability, and as strength, coordination, and sensory integration improve, they can progress toward more independent and refined balance control. So the statement is not accurate: these children can develop weight-shifting and balance, even if it takes more time and tailored interventions.