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SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
For many, disabilities create a lifetime of frustration and difficulty in performing everyday activities. While more than 67,000 children ages 0 to 5 in
Every child develops at a different rate and in different ways. By learning the early signs of developmental delays, parents and caregivers can be more aware of their child’s needs and provide the necessary support to encourage healthy growth and development. Recognizing that special needs and disabilities cover a wide range of emotional, physical and mental issues, the following are some signs to help parents and caregivers begin to identify potential challenges as their child grows. Consult a doctor if your child:
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Does not like being held or talked to by 6 months of age. |
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Does not make, or rarely makes, eye contact with others. |
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Does not pay attention or stay with a task for as long as other same age children. |
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Does not like being touched. |
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Does not like being soothed and comforted. |
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Has consistent sleeping, feeding, eating or toileting problems. |
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Has trouble putting thoughts, actions and movements together. |
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Has tantrums, fights, screams and hits daily. |
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Does not seek praise from a parent or caregiver. |
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Acts extremely shy or withdrawn. |
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Often acts out; seems to be very stubborn and angry. |
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Does not like having certain materials or clothing next to his or her body. |
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Tends to break objects frequently. |
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Is sick often; may have stomachaches and headaches more than other children. |
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Stares into space or rocks body. |
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Talks to self more than other children do. |
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Often bangs head on an object, floor or wall. |
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May often try to harm other children, animals or objects. |
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Is overly active; does things hastily or is easily distracted. |
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Breathes through the mouth. |
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Does not know when there is danger; may walk into traffic or jump from high places. |
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Gets very upset when trying to do simple tasks that most children of the same age can do. |
Parents or caregivers who spot special needs symptoms in their children may follow these tips to encourage their child’s healthy development:
Get help early. If you think there may be a problem, even if you are not sure, seek help. Visit a doctor or health care professional for more resources available to you and your child.
After diagnosis, learn more about your child’s disability. Consult doctors and do not be afraid to ask questions. Go to the library or search the Internet to learn about your child’s disability.
Look for support and learn your rights. Both you and your child may need emotional support and/or advice for finding the right information and resources. The most encouraging help may come from other parents who have children with disabilities or special needs.
Love, encourage and nurture your child. As children grow, they need opportunities to play and learn regardless of their disabilities. Help your child find ways to do things independently or with the least assistance possible. Involve him or her in making decisions, which will build confidence and help your child to become a self-assured and capable adult.
The links below also offer additional information to parents and caregivers. If you think your child or a child in your care may have special needs, or you would like more information on recognizing healthy development signs, please contact your child’s doctor or health care professional.
An organization dedicated to the early detection of developmental delays in young children. The site includes resources about healthy development, when to be concerned, screening and assessment, and more.
Sharing Concerns – Parent to Physician
Tips on how to share concerns about your child’s development and ways to advocate for your child.
Fact sheets, links and other important information to help parents understand their child’s development and learn more about developmental delays and disabilities.
Seven Tips for Surviving Your Child's Developmental Assessment
Information for parents about preparing for their child’s developmental assessment.