Most Common Developmental Disabilities In Children Today

Children experiencing developmental disabilities are typically seen to have an impairment in their physical learning, language, or behavior.  Conditions considered to be developmental disabilities typically begin showing signs in early childhood and may impact the day to day function of a person for the span of their life.

It’s important that parents are educated about the possibilities, so they may better prepare themselves to raise their children.  Here is a short overview of some of the most prevalent developmental disabilities in kids today, and how you can enable detection as early as possible.  

Autism is at the top of the list

In the United States, an average of one in every 68 kids is born on the Autism Spectrum, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Autism is typically diagnosed early in life, when the child is between two and six months old.

Scientists have still not managed to isolate all the different causes and contributions to a child developing Autism, but there has been plenty of speculation in past years.  Continuing mental health medication during gestation has been high on the list of possible factors.

Causes and risk factors for disabilities

In most cases, children develop disabilities before they are ever free of the womb, but injury, infection, and some other factors can lead to disabilities after birth.  

Most of the time, developmental disabilities are caused by a slew of factors including genetics, the health of the parents during gestation, complications during birth, and exposure to environmental toxins.

Understanding developmental milestones

By understanding developmental milestones, you can more adequately keep a watchful eye over your child’s natural development.  Simple motor skills like taking a first step, smiling, and waving “bye-bye” to others are all considered significant developmental milestones.  

There is no strict time when every child develops past each milestone, but given a general idea, you can tell if your child is not developing correctly.  You know your child better than anyone. If you have a doubt about their development, never hesitate to seek guidance.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) defines children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) as lacking undivided attention skills.  An average of nine percent of Americans have children living with ADHD.

Children aren’t the only ones learning to cope with their ADHD.  Around four percent of American adults are also diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.  

Developmental monitoring and screening

It’s vital that your child see a trained medical professional on a regular basis as they grow.  Your family doctor will be your closest advocate in monitoring your child’s natural development.  It always helps to have a trained eye by your side. Never neglect your child’s need for regular medical observation.