Mentally challenged children can suffer from one or multiple impairments that interfere with cognitive function. These impairments can be biological or psychological in nature and can manifest as mental retardation, developmental delays, mental illness and learning disabilities. Parents of children diagnosed with mental challenges should know the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) exists to ensure the special education needs of affected children are met from birth until age 21.
Retardation
Mental retardation is defined by the U.S. Social Security Administration as an IQ of 70 or less with substantial barriers to typical function. Experts estimate as many as three of every 100 individuals is mentally retarded. Causes for mental retardation are identified in only 25 percent of affected individuals. Known biological causes include environment, infection, genetic and chromosomal abnormalities, toxic exposure, physical trauma, nutrition and metabolic disorders.
Developmental
Children with developmental delays experience barriers to typical development that are not necessarily rooted in retardation. Many developmentally delayed children excel in a variety of academic pursuits, but fail to reach social or physical developmental milestones at the same pace as their peers. Children with developmental delays benefit from the earliest possible diagnosis and intervention services possible and all states are legally obligated to provide these services for infants and toddlers, according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Psychological
Mental illness can impair children much earlier than once thought. More that 10 percent of children ages 9 to 17 are believed to suffer from a mood disorder. Psychiatric conditions like depression can interfere with learning, memory and behavior. As of 2010, screening for psychiatric conditions is recommended for preschool children. Signs of mental illness are subtle at early ages, but can be life-threatening by the time a child reaches puberty.
Learning Disabled
Significant difficulties in one or more areas of education are considered learning disabilities only after ruling out all potential environmental causes and other possible diagnoses, such as mental retardation or autism. A mentally challenged child may experience learning disabilities that interfere with reading, math and memory, among others. Early diagnosis and intervention, as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, is recommended to prevent substantial academic delays.
Rights
Federal mandates outlined in the IDEA of 2004 require state and local governments to provide adequate accommodation and services for all disabled children, including mentally challenged children. Services must be provided from birth to age 21, according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This law nullifies any state or local laws and policies granting exemption from the obligation. Accommodations may include personal assistants in the classroom, adaptive learning tools or therapy.
