Flexiboy

Did you know that individuals with Down Syndrome can be incredibly flexible?  It's called Ligamentous Laxity (looseness of the ligaments and increased flexibility).  Have you ever noticed a child with DS can look a little more floppy in their movements?  That is due to the low muscle tone, which is one of the most common traits in these guys.  Lanisa (Welles’ physical therapist) tells me that with low muscle tone, strengthening is absolutely possible.  It just takes longer because the muscles are slower to contract.  Also, with low muscle tone comes lower toned ligaments, which, as we know, are there to support joints.  When these are low toned, the joints are more flexible because they have much less support. Honestly, I think it's one of the cutest things about Welles.  I absolutely love his floppiness.  It really helps in the cuddling department!  He doesn't support himself as well as a typical child at his age would, which means the dead weight does make harder to hold him.  And I don't know if you've seen him lately, but...  He's kind of a chunk!  The lack of support in his muscles also makes it easier for him to slip out of my arms.  You wouldn't believe the way this kid can move.  Okay, I'll just have to show you...

I swear my dear friend, Kathy, isn't hurting him one bit.  He isn't even phased!