Handicapped & Exceptional Child Information

Millions of children face special challenges when they are born with or develop handicaps and other exceptionalities. These children may have difficulties meeting milestones and achieving academically. However, proper identification and special services may help children with disabilities progress satisfactorily.

Significance

• According to the Forum on Child and Family Statistics, 14 percent of all U.S. children aged 17 and under have some type of special health care need. Of those about 62 percent were negatively affected by their special health care need.

Types

• The Individuals with Disabilities Act identifies 14 different types of disabilities. These disabilities include autism, deaf-blindness, visual impairment, deafness, hearing impairment, developmentally delayed, emotional disturbance, mental retardation, traumatic brain injury, orthopedic impairment, speech or language impairment, specific learning disability, multiple disabilities and other health impaired.

Identification

• A child is considered to have a handicap or exceptionality when his disability adversely affects his academic performance and success. Disabilities may be identified by a pediatrician, school personnel or therapist.

Treatments

• Many various treatments are available for children with handicaps of exceptionalities. Such treatments include speech therapy, language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, music therapy, play therapy and special education services.

Considerations

• Many conditions may be considered a disability under the other health impairment category of IDEA. Such conditions may include ADHD, diabetes, heart conditions, lead poisoning, epilepsy, hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, Tourette Syndrome, rheumatic fever and nephritis. Other conditions that may also fall into this category include fetal alcohol syndrome, dysphagia and bipolar disorders.