How do cognitive difficulties in infants with Down syndrome present over time?

Cognitive difficulties in infants with Down syndrome typically present as less apparent in their early months and become more pronounced by age 2. This developmental trajectory is consistent with the understanding of how children with Down syndrome grow and develop. In the initial months, infants may demonstrate developmental delays, but these can be subtle and not immediately obvious.

As the child approaches the age of 2, more pronounced cognitive challenges often become evident, especially as they are expected to reach specific developmental milestones that involve cognitive and language skills. This period typically showcases a clearer picture of their developmental capabilities, allowing families and caregivers to observe and assess their growth more effectively.

The other options do not accurately reflect the common developmental progression seen in infants with Down syndrome. For instance, cognitive difficulties are rarely obvious at birth nor do they tend to diminish in severity as the child grows. Also, challenges experienced by these children are not exclusively social and emotional; they extend to cognitive areas as well. Furthermore, while the home environment can influence overall development, it does not solely dictate the severity of cognitive difficulties identified in infants with Down syndrome. Thus, the description of cognitive difficulties becoming more pronounced by age 2 is the most accurate representation of their developmental trajectory.