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Developmental disabilities refer to lifelong impairments which are both cognitive (mental) or physical in nature. These disabilities commonly manifest before the age of eighteen and are distinctive from developmental delays. The first step to dealing with the issue is by learning all about it. What are the various causes? Developmental disabilities develop from many different factors. One of the most common reasons is very premature birth. This deprives a child of the chance to grow in the mother's womb. As you may have figured, time spent in the womb is essential for an infant to fully develop. It's important to note that this scenario isn't going to affect all premature births. Additional factors that brings about the disability are a brain injury or infection prior to, during, or after birth. During the first few months of a baby's life, their head is still quite soft because the skull has not yet fully formed. This is the reason it is important to take utmost care when dealing with a baby's head. The shaking of a child can even lead to long-term consequences. Chromosome and gene abnormalities also can cause such problems. Relevant to this is the potential for pre or post-natal growth nutrition problems. For this reason most doctors advocate a strict pre-natal process for expectant mothers. Drug use and abuse also adds to the possibility of giving birth to children with disabilities. Coping Parents of kids with disabilities often find themselves overwhelmed as soon as they learn of their child's condition. Discovery could happen upon birth, after an accident or illness, or as the child grows older. The feeling you get having an impaired child could be likened to the emotions of losing someone you care about. Being a parent, it is natural to wish a bright future for your child. That's where the misery comes into play. The loss is not going to have to do with the person but to the aspirations you may have had. These changes can put a great amount of stress in any relationship. In fact, parents usually report emotions of anger, frustration, guilt and sadness. Whether or not you like it or not, you could find yourself wondering "why?" Picking out the guidance of a professional is the ideal initial step. Use this opportunity not just to discover ways to cope but to educate yourselves about the likely special needs your child may have. When dealing with this type of situation, parents of kids with disabilities have to make sure to be strong. Keep in mind that the strength you show is not only just for you, but your little one also. Keep in mind that in spite of the situation, the child can continue to live a contented, healthy, and fruitful life. Reinforce that thought not just to your child, but to yourself at the same time. In the end, the quality of your child's life doesn't depend on their abilities. Though your child probably won't fit the conventional definition of normal, his or her life can still be positive. Don't ever ignore that fact. Mary Jones is a single mom to child with developmental disabilities and has started a foundation that can help children with disabilities.
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