Intellectual disability, also known as mental or cognitive disability, is not uncommon in the United States. The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities reports that, as of January 2011, about 6.5 million people across the nation have some form of intellectual disability. Regardless of its prevalence, this type of disability is a major challenge for affected children and their families. Understanding the signs is vital so that these kids can benefit from early intervention services.
Intellectual Disability in Children
Children with intellectual disability have the ability to learn; however, the process takes longer than in those who don't have such a disability. Intellectual disability affects their ability to reason and adapt. The cause of this type of disability varies and can develop both before birth and during childhood. Fetal alcohol, Down and fragile X syndromes are among the leading causes of intellectual disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Brain birth defects, infections, brain injury and certain metabolic conditions are also potential culprits.
Developmental Delays
Problems with practical skills are associated with intellectual disability. These include the ability to take care independently of normal day-to-day activities. Difficulty with such tasks signals developmental delays in kids. Failure to meet developmental milestones at certain ages is a significant sign of intellectual disability. Not walking by age 18 months, for instance, should be reported to the child's physician. Difficulty with washing hands, eating, getting dressed, using the toilet and teeth brushing at age 5 are also developmental red flags, according to the CDC.
Cognitive and Social Issues
Children who are intellectually disabled have both cognitive and social challenges. Their communication skills are delayed and they have trouble with speech. Difficulty with logical thinking and the inability to make connections not only affects their mental functioning but also makes socialization an obstacle. Related signs in a intellectually disabled child include poor memory and inability to link actions and consequences, the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities explains. They have trouble understanding and adapting to social norms, too. It's possible that these kids show little interest in peer interaction and may refuse to communicate with others.
Intervention Programs
Once caregivers notice these signs in children, getting help as soon as possible is important. Early intervention programs are vital for infants and toddlers exhibiting developmental delays. These programs provide a number of services for intellectually disabled children including speech, physical and occupational therapies. They can also provide support, training and counseling for the children's families. Intellectually disabled children in public schools receive similar services, with academic success being a major goal; these programs are carried out in the schools. School staff, families and the students themselves are involved in developing a plan of action.
References
- National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities; Intellectual Disability; January 2011
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Intellectual Disability; Oct. 29, 2005
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Developmental Milestones
- National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities; Overview of Early Intervention; September 2010
- National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities; The Short-and-Sweet IEP Overview; September 2010
