Developmental Disabilities-a Brief Overview For Parents

By Author: Katherine Briggs
Total Articles: 7
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What are developmental disabilities?

Developmental disability is a lifelong condition described by having mental and physical impairments. Individuals with developmental disabilities generally manifest symptoms before they are 18 years old.

This condition has an effect on the way they function every day. Parents who have kids with disabilities frequently worry about their children's future, especially their capacity to be independent, self-sufficient, mobile, and expressive.

Some developmental disabilities include mental retardation, autism spectrum disorders, genetic chromosomal disorders, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum.

Developmental disabilities can be categorized into three categories: mild, moderate, and profound and severe. People who fall inside the mild category could lead a normal life. They could live independently and can even gain lifelong employment. They take workshops and community socialization training to be able to function well in society.

Those who belong to the moderate category generally need a strong support system from their families and ...
... community agencies.

People who fall within the severe category have high levels of dependence and may need life-long support. They need intensive support as their mastery of everyday living or ADLS is limited, or in some cases, non-existent. Those that fall in this category experience medical complications such as seizures, difficulty in swallowing, and speech impairments.

Here are a few factors which can cause developmental disabilities:

-Severe physical abuse that could have triggered a brain injury and affected a child's learning abilities

-Infection during and after birth

-Nutrition problems during pregnancy

-Chromosome and genes abnormality

- Substance abuse during pregnancy. Drugs, alcohol and smoking can lead to developmental disability.

-Extreme prematurity or birth well before the expected date

How do you look after children with disabilities?

You should not be disheartened if you have a child who's got disabilities. Keep in mind that even if you will face a lot of difficulties, you are not alone. You'll always have a strong support group in your family and friends .There are institutions that can help you with the problem you have.

Here are some tips to help you look after your special child:

-Remember that they're still children

Children with disabilities require love, acceptance, opportunities and chances to shine like other children. Focus on your child's individual strengths instead of their problems.

-Ask questions to the right people

You must ask therapists together with other medical professionals in case you are unsure of the best way to supply proper care for your child. You must ask them as many questions as you need.

You should also keep communication lines open in case you might want to contact them for more guidance.

-Look for a suitable physical therapist

Each child is unique. Let the child meet a physical therapist that has enough experience with taking care of kids with special needs. Get together with them and do a thorough investigation. Inquire about their background, qualifications, and ethics. This will help you assess if this therapist could work for you.

-Develop a good plan

Go over your everyday activities with your chosen therapist and produce a plan to address your child's needs.

-Relax and be comfortable

Figure out how to introduce your kids to other people well. Remember that others look at you for cues on how they must act. You have to be positive and comfortable so that they will be too.

Katherine Briggs is a physical therapist who works with patients who have developmental disabilities and knows how to take care of children with disabilities.