Reading is an important skill for many areas of life, including academic achievement, occupational opportunities, social engagement, independent living, and personal enjoyment. However, it also complex, and successful reading is determined by numerous different subskills at different ages and stages of reading development. This panel is composed of experts on reading development in individuals with Down syndrome, including researchers, educators, speech-language pathologists, self? advocates, and young adult book club members. The panel will discuss typical reading development, reading development in individuals with Down syndrome, and strategies for improving reading instruction for individuals with Down syndrome. This will include instructional strategies for early childhood through adulthood, as well as ideas for how to promote motivation, interest, and social engagement in and around reading.
