More than 67,000 children ages zero to five in California have been diagnosed with special needs and disabilities. Many more children live with undiagnosed disabilities, hindering their ability to play and learn. Early diagnosis and provision of supportive services can help improve the quality of life for these children.
First 5 Sacramento realizes that every child develops at a different rate and in different ways. By understanding developmental milestones, parents and caregivers can be more aware of their child’s needs and provide the necessary support to encourage healthy growth and development. Recognizing that special needs and disabilities cover a wide range of social, emotional, physical and mental issues, First 5 Sacramento offers the indicators in Table One to help parents and caregivers begin identifying potential challenges as their child grows. Consult a doctor if your child exhibits any of these behaviors. (See Table 1.)
The presence of one or more of these behaviors does not mean that child is developmentally delayed. However, First 5 Sacramento suggests parents or caregivers who spot possible developmental delays in their child follow these tips to enhance their child’s healthy development:
1. Get help early: If you think there may be a problem or even if you are not sure, seek help. Visit a doctor for more resources available to you and your child.
2. Learn more about your child’s disability: Go to the library or search the Internet to learn about your child’s disability. Consult doctors and do not be afraid to ask questions.
3. Look for support: Both you and your child may need emotional support and/or advice for finding the right information and resources. The most encouraging help may come from other parents who have children with disabilities or special needs. In Sacramento County, you can contact Warmline Family Resource Centers at 800-660-7995 or online at www.warmelinefrc.org.
4. Love, encourage and nurture your child: As children grow, they need opportunities to play and learn regardless of their disabilities. Help your child find ways to do things independently or with the least assistance possible. Involve him or her in making decisions, which will build confidence and help your child become a self-assured and capable adult.
Table 1. Behaviors Indicators for Potential Development Problems
Does not like being held or talked to by 6 months of age
Often acts out; seems to be very stubborn and angry
Does not make, or rarely makes eye contact with others
Does not like having certain materials or clothing next to his or her body
Does not pay attention or does not stay with a task for as long as other children of the same age do
Does not know when there is danger; may walk into traffic or jump from high places
Does not like being touched
Tends to break objects frequently
Gets very upset when trying to do simple tasks that most children of the same age can do
Is sick often; may have stomachaches and headaches more frequently than other children
Does not like being soothed and comforted
Stares into space or rocks body
Has sleeping, feeding, eating or toileting problems
Talks to self more than other children do
Has trouble putting thoughts, actions and movements together
Often bangs head on an object, floor or wall
Has tantrums, fights, screams and hits daily
May often try to harm other children, animals or objects
Does not seek praise from a parent or caregiver
Is overly active; does things hastily or is easily distracted
Acts extremely shy or withdrawn
Breathes through the mouth
Research shows that a child’s brain develops most dramatically in the first five years and what parents and caregivers do during these years to support their child’s growth will have a meaningful impact throughout life. Based on this research, California voters passed Proposition 10 in 1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax on cigarettes to support programs for expectant parents and children ages zero to five. First 5 Sacramento distributes approximately $17 million a year in Prop. 10 revenues to programs and services that meet local needs. For information on First 5 Sacramento programs call 916-876-5865.