Intellectual disability

Introduction

Children with intellectual disability learn at a slower rate than other children. They may also have developmental delays early in life.

Intellectual disability affects:

• intellectual skills - learning, reasoning, memory, and problem-solving
• adaptive behaviour - activities that are part of everyday life, such as talking, making friends, eating, dressing, and using the toilet.

Intellectual disability is different for every child. It can range from mild to severe.

Children with intellectual disability will generally learn at a slower rate than other children. 

This can cause delays in areas of development like:

• cognitive skills - learning, reasoning, memory and problem-solving
• language skills- speaking and communicating
• motor skills - sitting up, crawling or walking
• self-care activities - eating, dressing and using the toilet
• social skills - playing and developing friendships.

Global Development Delay (GDD) is when there are multiple skills that are slow to develop.

Some children may have learning difficulties that are more noticeable when they start school and have trouble keeping up with learning, behaviour, and social skills.

Children develop skills at different rates. Some children may take longer than normal to develop these skills. 

If you are concerned that your child is not developing skills, speak to your:

• child and family health nurse
• child's teachers
• local doctor
• paediatrician.

Intellectual disability is diagnosed using formal tests with your child. These tests are done by:

• paediatricians
• psychologists
• psychiatrists
• school counsellors.

They will gather information from parents, therapists, doctors and either childcare educators or school teachers.

They will also observe your child and complete a series of activities called ‘formal’ tests or ‘cognitive assessments.’ Formal tests might include activities such as having your child:

• name and remember pictures
• complete puzzles and patterns
• answer questions
• perform independent and everyday activities of living.

Intellectual disability can be caused by:

• genetic conditions like Down syndrome or fragile X syndrome
• a traumatic injury to the head or brain
• an infection like meningitis
• problems during birth, like not having enough oxygen.

It is important that your child is checked by your family doctor or paediatrician to identify any other health concerns related to intellectual disability. They will discuss future steps to support your child and family.

Children with intellectual disability will learn and develop new skills at their own pace. They will often need more time and practice than other children of the same age. 

Every person with intellectual disability is unique, just like everyone else. The level of support needed will be different for every child and may change throughout their life. 

Your child's doctor will talk to you about health and support services that will help your child to develop and learn well.