Spatial abilities in Down syndrome: Characterising the profile of spatial skills and models of spatial development

Abstract

Evidence shows that spatial interventions are successful in typical development. However, the potential of spatial interventions for Down syndrome (DS) populations is hindered by the lack of literature on spatial skills and their development in this group. This paper investigates (a) the profile of strengths and weaknesses in spatial abilities, and (b) the cross-sectional developmental trajectories of spatial skills, in DS relative to typical development. Participants included 33 individuals with DS (58% male; 10–35 years) and 131 typically developing (TD) children (53% male; 4–11 years) who completed spatial tasks assessing two spatial sub-domains. Despite weaknesses in spatial skill, the DS spatial profile aligned closely with that of mental-age matched TD children. Cross-sectional developmental trajectories revealed slower rates of spatial development for those with DS, relative to TD children. Collectively, these results indicate potential for improving spatial skills in DS through intervention.