Introduction to Developmental Disability

Do I have a developmental disability? Do you? How do I know? What is it?

A developmental disability is a SEVERE mental or physical disability that occurs BEFORE age 22 and causes problems with major life activities such as speaking, moving, taking care of oneself and living independently. People with disabilities are expected to need some type of help with daily living for a very long time, often their whole lives. Some examples of developmental disabilities are mental retardation, autism and cerebral palsy.

What is an Individual Education Plan? An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed for each child in special education, based on the child's needs, An IEP should be in writing and involve people from the schools, parents, and the student. Other people can be invited to an IEP meeting if the parents, student or school think it is a good idea. An IEP should say how the student is doing now, and what the educational needs and goals are for the student. For more on IEPs, click here.

What is an Individual Family Service Plan? An Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) is like an IEP in that it is a written plan for a child with special needs. It describes how the child is doing now and the services the family will receive. It is different than an IEP in that it is for younger children who are not yet in school. In an IFSP, services are for the family, not just the student. For more on IFSPs, click here.

For answers to questions people often have when they first are told their child has a developmental disability, click here