Children with Special Needs
All children learn different skills at different times. If it takes longer for your child to do new things, it could indicate that your child could have a developmental delay or disability. The sooner you have your questions answered, the better it will be for you and your child.
If you're concerned about your child's development,
here's what to do:
Gather some information.
Look at a list that shows what children can do at a certain age, like the Smart Start Parent Resource Guide. If you know that your child has a developmental delay or a disability, ask your child's teacher, doctor or nurse about books and materials available to help you. Talk with parents of children with a similar condition.
Make an appointment with your doctor.
Do not wait, thinking that the situation will change. Don't wait until the next well-baby checkup. The sooner you have your questions answered, the better you and your child will be.
At the doctor's appointment, show the doctor the list of what your child can do and cannot do. Discuss your concerns with the doctor and ask for ideas on how you can help your child learn new skills. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion.
To have your child further evaluated: Ask your doctor or nurse to evaluate your child's abilities.
For children, newborn to age 3:
Many public and private agencies evaluate and test children to see if they have a disability or developmental delay. The people who test your child will want to know what your concerns are. For example, is it taking your child longer to learn to walk than you think it should? Is your child not making any sounds at 1 year? Does your 2-year-old child sit and rock back and forth? Your doctor can suggest agencies to contact to have your child evaluated. Be very clear about why you want your child evaluated, so the doctor can refer you to the best agency for your child.
If your child is found to have a delay or disability, different kinds of early intervention services are available from the regional Children’s Developmental Services Agency or the Child Service Coordinator at your local Health Department.
For children, ages 3 and older:
Services are available for children with/or at risk for developmental or emotional delays and disabilities. For more information: Contact the Exceptional Children's Program Director of your local school district.
In an increasing number of early childhood programs around North Carolina teachers, parents and children are discovering the benefits of educating young children with special needs together with their same-age peers. Since learning is so important in the early years, this is the best time for children to begin to respect all people's differences and the contributions each individual makes. The goal is to ensure every student in the classroom has the chance to reach his or her fullest potential.
For more information on special needs and early intervention services in North Carolina click here.