National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Developmental disabilities are those that are often first noticed in early childhood during key periods of development but are often lifelong diagnoses that have a range of impacts on social, physical, and mental functioning. Developmental disabilities affect more individuals than many of us may be aware of with as much as 17% of young children experiencing some sort of delay or developmental disability. While these disabilities can have significant long-term impacts, early intervention can improve outcomes and ensure that these individuals have the supports they need to be the most successful they can be. In recognition of National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, here are a few tips for parents and caregivers: - Monitor your child’s development. Young children have many milestones that they will typically reach in their first few years of life. While it can be exciting and anxiety-inducing to watch these changes, it is important that you know what to look for. There are many resources available online to help support you in knowing what is typical and what may be concerning. You can also talk to your child’s doctor about typical development, and they will likely provide screenings periodically to monitor development as well.
- Advocate for yourself and your child. If you see something that concerns you about your child’s development, let your child’s doctor know and discuss options for developmental screenings or referrals to other providers. Take some time to complete a milestone checklist or make lists of questions you may have to discuss with your doctor and don’t be afraid to ask additional questions. The CDC has some checklists and tips available at https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/concerned.html if you are unsure where to start.
- Seek support for yourself and your child. Navigating supportive services and challenges that come with parenting a child with developmental disabilities can be stressful. It is important that you find support in whatever way that you need it. https://familyvoices.org/ can be an excellent tool for finding other parents or families who are going through the same or similar experiences.
World Autism Awareness Week (3/30/2024 to 4/5/2024) At the end of March, we begin the recognition of Autism Awareness Week leading up to World Autism Acceptance Day on April 2nd. Approximately 1 in 36 children were identified with Autism in 2020 according to the CDC. For most children with autism spectrum disorder, there is some combination of difficulties with social behavior as well as engagement in restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. There are also several other delays and developmental challenges commonly associated with Autism. Here are a few examples of some signs or behaviors associated with Autism:- Difficulty with eye contact
- Does not notice when others are hurt or upset
- Not engaging in pretend play (much or at all)
- Repeats words or phrases over and over
- Has obsessive interests
- Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel
- Delayed language and movement skills
- Unusual sleeping and eating habits
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder often face many difficulties with social relationships, career and education, and overall wellbeing. As many as 7/10 individuals with Autism also struggle with some other mental health condition (anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, depression, etc.). If you or your child is struggling with a developmental disability or challenges related to Autism or feeling stressed or overwhelmed by these diagnoses, mental health professionals are available to help you find supports, identify strengths, and navigate the challenges you or your loved one may be facing. | 
