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

Bibliography 1. "Intellectual Disability (Mental Retardation): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments." WebMD. disability-mental-retardation (accessed July 3, 2014). 2. "Resources." The Arc. (accessed July 3, 2014). 3. "Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Signs." Texas Panhandle Centers. (accessed July 3, 2014). 4."Intellectual Disabilities in Your Classroom: 9 Tips for Teachers." National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities. (accessed July 3, 2014).