INTELLECTUAL/DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

Presented by Anna Combs

Definition

The term Intellectual disability is defined as a disability characterized by significant limitations in

both intellectual function in and in adaptive behavior, which covers many everyday social and practical

skills. This disability originates before the age of 18. A developmental disability includes an intellectual disability, but it can also encompass a physical

disability.

Facts

Affects 1.5% to 2.5% of the United States population

Affects 3% of the Texas Population In some situations, it can be preventable Must be diagnosed before the age of 18 Can occur before, during, or after birth

Causes

Genetics Problems during Pregnancy Problems during Birth Problems after Birth

Genetics

Can be passed down by one parent Can occur when the genes are combined to

make the child Can occur if an infection or illness affects the

genes Examples: Down Syndrome, PKU

Problems During Pregnancy

Most of these are preventable This is generally substance abuse: alcohol,

drugs, being around smoke Alcohol is the leading preventable cause of

intellectual or developmental delays Other causes during Pregnancy are malnutrition

and illness of the mother

Problems During Birth

These are generally not as preventable Lack of oxygen to the baby Premature birth Birth injuries

Problems after Birth

Childhood diseases such as whooping cough, measles, etc. can affect the brain

Brain injuries Environmental factors

-poverty

-malnutrition

-toxins around the living area

Signs

Walking, talking, sitting up late Trouble with memory or remembering things Trouble calculating Problem solving and logic issues Social problems Having trouble seeing consequences to actions Talking abnormally

Tips for Teachers

Don't underestimate these students abilities Teach them life skills, not just subject matter Be willing to make any accommodations

necessary Go step by step and be concrete with directions Help them in the social realm as much as

possible Work alongside parent's and IEP team as much

as possible Give immediate feedback Love them and pray for them

Bibliography1. "Intellectual Disability (Mental Retardation): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments." WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/children/intellectual-

disability-mental-retardation (accessed July 3, 2014).

2. "Resources." The Arc. http://www.thearc.org/what-we-do/resources/fact-sheets/causes-and-prevention (accessed July 3, 2014).

3. "Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Signs." Texas Panhandle Centers. http://www.texaspanhandlecenters.org/signs.html (accessed

July 3, 2014).

4."Intellectual Disabilities in Your Classroom: 9 Tips for Teachers." National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities.

Http://nichcy.org/intellectual-disabilities-in-your-classroom (accessed July 3, 2014).