Developmental Disabilities
A group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. About one in six children in the U.S. have one or more developmental disabilities or other developmental delays. They are chronic conditions that are due to mental or physical impairments. Children with developmental disabilities often struggle with language, mobility, learning, self-care and independent living.
Examples of developmental disabilities include:
- Intellectual Disability (Mental Retardation)
- Cerebral palsy
- Autism
- Down syndrome
- Fragile X syndrome
- Rett syndrome
- Degenerative birth defects
- Metabolic disorders
- Sensory-related disabilities
- Developmental disabilities
Examples of Developmental Disabilities:
- Genetics
- Complications during pregnancy or birth
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Infectious diseases
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Severe head injury
- Environmental exposure to lead or mercury
Symptoms of Developmental Disabilities are characterized by a variety of physical, sensory, psychological, cognitive and speech impairments. Early detection makes it easier to correct a problem and provide the supports a child needs to meet their full potential.
Possible signs of a developmental disability include:
- Lagging behind other children in fine motor skills, language and thinking
- Difficulty reading nonverbal cues
- Difficulty self-soothing or expressing feelings
- Hearing loss, sensitivity to noises and vision problems
- Continued infant-like behavior
- Lack of curiosity
- Problems with sleep, attention or aggression
- Difficulty controlling and coordinating movement
- Problems with posture, balance or coordination
- Falling behind in school
Treatment for developmental disabilities begins with proper testing and diagnosis. Once a family understands their child’s needs, recommendations can be made for specialized treatment programs.
Depending on the child’s specific challenges, treatment options may include:
Therapy at Kids in Stride 828-837-0400 in Murphy NC
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Experiential therapy
- Physical therapy
- Life and social skills training
- Behavioral therapy
- Special diet
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