boy with Down’s Syndrome is calling on south Essex to help raise awareness of the condition.

Toni Morris, 30, of Wellington Avenue, Westcliff, says more should be done to explain the condition as her son is often referred to as a “Down’s” and not a little boy.

Her son Jude Little, six, was diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome at birth and is now a pupil at mainstream school, Blenheim Primary, in Leigh, where he is thriving.

The condition typically causes some level of learning disability and a characteristic range of physical features.

Miss Morris said: “He was diagnosed when he was born.

I’m glad I didn’t know he had Down’s Syndrome when pregnant because I think I would have panicked. As it is, we have learnt as we have gone on.

“He is our child and as long as we are all happy, it’s fine.

“I wouldn’t change Jude for the world. It was upsetting to begin with, but I think he is perfect.

“I can’t stand it when people say he is “a Down’s”. No, he is a little boy who happens to have Down’s Syndrome.”

Miss Morris praised the school for the support they give Jude, including taking part inWorld Down Syndrome Day on March 21, which is encouraging people to wear odd socks for the occasion.

She said: “They understand him and the fact he is different, but he is the same – it might take him longer, but he is getting there. They are taking the time to help him and he is amazing.

“Down’s Syndrome is to do with an extra chromosome, so we all wear odd socks as a way of illustrating this and to show our support for Down Syndrome Day. This isn’t about raising money, it’s about raising awareness and getting people to open their eyes.”

Blenheim Primary headteacher Darren Woollard said: “We are an inclusive school and we believe all children can be the best they can be.

“Whatever their individual needs, we will give them the best support we can.

“By wearing odd socks it gives both myself and the children a chance to tell people about World Down Syndrome Day.”

Visit worlddownsyndrome day.org/wdsd-2015