Think your child might have a disability or developmental delay? Take these steps

While we all want our children not to have any problems at all, the reality is that life doesn’t always work that way. Many children suffer from some sort of problem, whether it’s something minor and often temporary, like a speech delay, or something more difficult and permanent, like cerebral palsy or autism. Children with problems or disabilities are no less wonderful and deserving than children without. The key to getting them on the right path for the best life possible is identifying those problems and getting help — as early as possible. That’s why it’s important to speak up early. Sometimes there isn’t a problem, and a child just needs a bit more time, or is a bit quirky. But it’s always better to find out. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Taking the first steps to evaluate possible disability or developmental delay The first step if you are worried about your child is to share those concerns with your health care provider. There may be medical tests that are needed or could be helpful, and your doctor can and should be your partner in helping your child and your family. The next step is getting your child an evaluation. This will connect you to any help and services that may be needed. Ask your doctor about suggestions for specialists who can evaluate your children. Two kinds of evaluations are available to all children: Early Intervention for children from birth to the third birthday Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) for children wh...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Children's Health Parenting Source Type: blogs