© Shutterstock

Defining developmental disabilities -

The term "developmental disabilities" refers to a diverse group of conditions that involve mental and/or physical impairments arising before adulthood.

© Shutterstock

Difficulties -

A person with developmental disabilities may experience difficulties in many areas of life including, but not limited to, language, mobility, and learning.

© Shutterstock

ADHD -

One example of a developmental disability is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes people to struggle to pay attention or control impulsive behaviors.

© Shutterstock

ADHD -

There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed, and some symptoms may improve with treatment as the child ages.

© Shutterstock

ASD -

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) such as Asperger syndrome are also classified as developmental disabilities. These can cause significant communication and behavioral challenges.

© Shutterstock

ASD -

The symptoms of autism spectrum disorders vary in severity, and there are many treatments available to help people live with ASD.

© Shutterstock

Cerebral palsy -

Cerebral palsy (CP) is another group of disorders that comes under the umbrella of developmental disabilities. CP affects a child’s ability to move and maintain balance.

© Shutterstock

Cerebral palsy -

CP is the most common motor disability in children; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in 345 children are affected.

© Shutterstock

Down syndrome -

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes a child to be born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is also quite common, occurring in around one in 1,000 babies born each year.

© Shutterstock

Down syndrome -

The extra chromosome in people with Down syndrome affects the development of both the body and the brain, and it can cause a range of mental and physical impairments.

© Shutterstock

Fragile X syndrome -

Fragile X syndrome (FSX) is a developmental disability that we still do not know much about, although it appears to be more frequent among males.

© Shutterstock

Fragile X syndrome -

FSX is believed to be a genetic condition that causes autism and intellectual disability. Scientists are actively working to understand more about this condition and how we can best support those affected.

© Shutterstock

FASDs -

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are a group of conditions that can develop in babies whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy.

© Shutterstock

FASDs -

The conditions are caused prior to birth and have symptoms that include abnormal appearance, low body weight, behavioral problems, and learning difficulties.

© Shutterstock

Others -

The list of developmental disabilities listed above is not exhaustive—there are many others that have not been included.

© Shutterstock

Causes -

For some developmental disabilities, such as FASDs, we know the cause. For the majority, however, we do not know.

© Shutterstock

Combination of factors -

It is thought that most developmental disabilities are caused by a complex combination of factors, including genetics, parental health and behaviors during pregnancy, and complications during birth.

© Shutterstock

Other relevant factors -

Also potentially relevant are any infections the mother may have had during pregnancy, or the baby may have had during early life, as well as exposure to high levels of environmental toxins, such as lead.

© Shutterstock

Diagnosing developmental disabilities -

Developmental disabilities usually begin during the developmental period, and when it comes to diagnosing them, monitoring is of the utmost importance.

© Shutterstock

Diagnosing developmental disabilities - Developmental monitoring involves observing how a child grows, and monitoring whether they meet the typical developmental milestones that most children meet by a given age.

© Shutterstock

Who's involved -

Parents, grandparents, educators, and caregivers can all participate in developmental monitoring, and there are many resources available with helpful information about milestones.

© Shutterstock

Milestone Tracker app -

For example, the CDC has created a Milestone Tracker app to help parents and other providers work together to monitor a child’s development.

© Shutterstock

When to consult a doctor -

If you are concerned that your child is not meeting their developmental milestones, it is important that you consult their doctor and share your concerns.

© Shutterstock

Speak up -

Acting early can make a real difference when it comes to developmental disabilities, so do not be afraid to reach out. After all, you know your child best.

© Shutterstock

Developmental screening -

Developmental screening is more formal than developmental monitoring and often forms part of a well-child visit, even if there is no particular concern.

© Shutterstock

AAP recommendation -

Currently the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends developmental and behavioral screening for all children at ages nine, 18, and 30 months.

© Shutterstock

ASD screening -

In addition, the AAP recommends that children be screened specifically for ASD at the ages of 18 and 24 months.

© Shutterstock

At the appointment -

At a well-child visit, your child’s doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your child’s development, and may play with your child to see if they are meeting their milestones.

© Shutterstock

At the appointment -

Your doctor or nurse may also ask about any conditions your child’s family members may have, such as ASD or ADHD.

© Shutterstock

All in all -

Living with developmental disabilities can be very challenging for all those affected. But catching them early can make a real difference, so adults should always be ready to voice any concerns they may have.

Sources: (CDC)

See also: The most common genetic conditions in the world

© Shutterstock