What Is A Developmental Disability?

In most cases, a developmental disability is a severe, chronic disability that can be attributed to a mental or physical impairment or both that began before age 22. The disability must also result in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following major life activities:

• Self-care
• Receptive and expressive language
• Learning
• Ability to move
• Self-direction/motivation
• Capacity for independence
• Economic self-sufficiency

Who Do I Ask?

If you think your child may have a developmental disability, consult your child's physician, or call The Arc for further information and referrals in reference to potential diagnosis.

A Few Examples:

• Down Syndrome
• Spina Bifida
• Autism
• Mental Retardation
• Fragile X Syndrome
• Cerebral Palsy
• Genetic Disorders