Developing Good Practices for Children with Disabilities

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and if you’re a parent—especially an expecting one—you may not know what to expect if your child is diagnosed with a developmental disability. We know this time can be daunting, but you aren’t alone. We’ve compiled some important resources for you and your child to navigate developmental disabilities of all shapes and sizes.

Developmental disability is the broader term used to describe a wide range of conditions that affect mental and/or physical function. While most of these conditions are evident from birth, some do not appear until later in childhood. A few examples of developmental disabilities include autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities such as ADHD. 

These can sometimes influence a child’s vision or hearing, as well, but developmental disabilities typically center around the brain and its ability to function.

If you suspect your child may be struggling, here are some other signs of developmental delay to watch out for: 

If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, you can speak to a pediatric specialist at Hancock Health to find out the best next steps for your little one. You can also speak to a licensed counselor who may be able to help with any intellectual disabilities or a speech therapist for a child who is struggling to communicate. 

No matter what developmental disability your child may have, Hancock Health is here for you. We’re more than prepared to help you navigate this new stage of your life, and we can help you get off on the right foot when supporting your little one.