Understanding Special Needs
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) defines children with special needs as "those who have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical,
developmental, behavioral or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally."
The term "special needs" can describe numerous conditions ranging from mild to severe, including sensory impairment.
Parenting any child brings rewards and opportunities.
When your child has special needs, the rewards are precious and the opportunities may be challenging.
Your child is a child first. Spend time enjoying your child, focusing on his unique personality and interest, not on the limitations.
Try to notice things your child has in common with all children and enjoy your child's strengths.
This article provides information and resources to help with some of the practical issues you will face.
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Types Of Special Needs
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Type
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Definition
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Examples
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Physical
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- Conditions that substantially limit basic activities such as walking, climbing stairs, reaching, lifting or carrying.
- May require devices such as wheelchairs, crutches or artificial limbs.
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- Medical issues such as muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis, cancer or heart defects.
- Chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy.
- Congenital conditions such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida.
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Developmental
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- Conditions that substantially limit the capacity for self-care, communications, learning, mobility, self-directions or independent living.
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- Genetic disorders such as Down syndrome or autism.
- Learning disabilities such as dyslexia and central auditory processing disorder.
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Behavioral/
Emotional
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- Conditions that adversely affect educational performance and interpersonal relationships and cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory or health factors.
- Conditions marked by general unhappiness or depression, inappropriate behaviors, anxiety or fear.
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- Bipolar disorder.
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
- Attention Deficit Disorder.
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Sensory Impairment
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- Conditions that affect vision and/or hearing.
- May require special equipment and modifications to communicate.
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- Blind or visually impaired.
- Deaf or limited hearing.
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For information and advice about specific conditions, visit The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities at www.nichcy.org and click "Disabilities."
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Act Now
It is important to take action as soon as you think your child may have special needs. Use the My Observations Work Sheet to record your observations and questions about your child's progress. Take note of symptoms that concern you, but also pay attention to your child's strengths.
Importance Of Early Intervention
Early intervention is a system of services for children from birth to 3 years of age. Children at risk of a developmental delay or disorder are routinely referred to early intervention by their physicians. If a child qualifies, she may receive a range of services at no (or low) cost to the family. Early intervention is designed to improve outcomes for children with disabilities by providing early, appropriate and intensive interventions.
Make appointments to have your child evaluated — the sooner, the better. Research shows that early intervention can improve your child's developmental potential.
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Who Evaluates My Child?
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Your Child's Pediatrician
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- Can assess your child's development.
- Can provide referrals to medical specialists as needed.
- May direct you to early intervention providers in your location.
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Your State's Early Intervention Program (EIP)
(for infants and toddlers)
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- Provides specialized health, educational and therapeutic services for infants and toddlers having developmental delays or disabilities.
- Services vary by state.
- Your child must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify for services.
- Visit www.nectac.org/contact/ptccoord.asp to locate your state's provider.
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Your Local Public School (for children over 3 years of age)
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- Required by federal law to evaluate children as young as 3 years of age if a parent suspects a disability.
- Call your neighborhood school or local school district office for information.
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Whenever you meet with a physician, therapist, teacher or other professional, remember:
- Take a list of your observations and questions.
- Take detailed notes during these appointments.
These records will help you form a complete picture of your child's progress over time.
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Topics covered in this section are:
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Education
Education