March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month began in March 1987, when all Americans were called upon to support opportunities for people with developmental disabilities (DD) to reach their full potential. Since then, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) has led a campaign every March. Its goal is to promote inclusion, share stories, and remind us that people with DD can and should be active participants in all areas of community life. Strong, diverse communities thrive when everyone is included.
Understanding Developmental Disabilities
A developmental disability can begin anytime during the developmental period — often before birth — and typically lasts a lifetime. These disabilities may result from a complex mix of factors, including genetics, maternal health or behaviors during pregnancy (such as smoking or drinking), birth complications, maternal infections, or early exposure to environmental toxins like lead.
Some conditions, like fetal alcohol syndrome, are directly linked to pregnancy-related factors. However, for most developmental disabilities, the exact cause can be hard to pinpoint.
Early Signs and Diagnosis
Developmental milestones play an important role in early detection. Parents and healthcare professionals work together in a process called developmental monitoring. They track key milestones such as smiling, waving, walking, speaking, learning, and playing. If a child falls behind expected timelines, closer evaluation may be needed.
Developmental disabilities typically appear before age 22 and affect physical, cognitive, or both areas of functioning. Without early intervention, these challenges can impact emotional, intellectual, and physical growth.
To better understand risk factors, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funds the Study to Explore Early Development (SEED) — a multi-year study focused on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The CDC also runs the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, which tracks the number and characteristics of children with ASD, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities in U.S. communities.
How Common Are Developmental Disabilities?
Developmental disabilities affect children of all races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Current U.S. estimates suggest that about 1 in 54 children (approximately 18.5%) between the ages of 3 and 17 have one or more DDs. These include:
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
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Cerebral palsy
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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
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Learning or intellectual disabilities
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Hearing or vision loss
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Other developmental delays
Education and Support
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), passed in 2004, guarantees early intervention, special education, and transition services for children with disabilities. This law helps students move successfully from school into adulthood. It also emphasizes accountability and equal access to education, giving children with DD the same opportunities as their peers.
Health and Well-Being
Having a developmental disability does not mean a person cannot be healthy. With the right support, they can live full and active lives. Access to proper health care, education, and community resources is essential. This is particularly important because children with DD are more likely to experience additional health issues such as asthma, eczema, migraines, or gastrointestinal conditions.
Raising Awareness and Building Inclusive Communities
Each March, NACDD partners with the Association for University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) and the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) to run a national social media campaign. The campaign promotes inclusion, highlights barriers people with DD still face, and encourages everyone to help build communities where all members can thrive.
Planning for a Loved One with Disabilities
If you have a loved one with a developmental disability, planning for their future is essential. A properly designed special needs estate plan can protect their financial well-being, preserve their eligibility for government benefits, and ensure they receive the care they need.
We help families create customized plans for their unique situations and would be honored to assist you. Call us today at (207) 848-5600 to schedule a consultation and begin building peace of mind for your family.
