Some resources refer to developmental disabilities as intellectual or cognitive disabilities. This medical diagnosis is determined by the child's intellectual abilities, such as learning, problem-solving and understanding the world around them, and their independent living skills. Children with developmental disabilities may not develop certain life skills or take longer to learn to walk, speak, take care of themselves, or have trouble learning in school.
The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) is a federal law that guides how every child with developmental disabilities receives early intervention and educational services. IDEA requires that all children ages 3 to 21 have access to special education services. School staff are required by the IDEA to work with the child's parents to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that describes the child's needs and the services that will address those needs free of charge. When developing the IEP, parents and school staff consider accommodating the child's developmental disability by aids such as special equipment, tutoring or aides.
The U.S. Department of Education offers a guide to help teachers, parents and schools to develop IEPs called, "A Guide to the Individualized Education Program." The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities offers resource sheets on intellectual disabilities on its website with basic information and lists state programs and agencies.
There are a number of non-profit organizations that provide information and support to the parents of children with developmental disabilities. For example, the National Association for Down Syndrome provides parent workshops, support programs and networking opportunities.
Children with developmental disabilities may be helped by devices and computer aids known collectively known as assistive technology (AT) in their everyday activities. AT covers a broad range of products such as remotes for electronic devices, talking books or computer aids like keyguard for a computer keyboard that helps guide children to the correct keys or a specially adapted mouse. The website AbleData contains a comprehensive list of AT products.