Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are conditions that affect a person’s cognitive, social, and adaptive functioning. Early intervention is essential for children with IDD as it can help them to reach their fullest potential as they grow and improve their quality of life for the present and as they grow.

Early intervention includes providing support and serves in a variety of forms including therapy, education, and support services not only for the child but for their family as well. These services help to promote brain development, improve communication skills, and develop life skills necessary for growing older, as well as provide families with the support they need to help their child thrive.

• Studies have shown that early intervention can lead to significant improvements in cognitive, language, and social-emotional development for children with IDD.

Brain Development 
The brain is the most important piece of a young person’s early life, and early intervention can help to promote healthy brain development and even minimize the effects of IDD.

Language & Communication Skills
Early intervention can help a child build and develop effective communication skills by using verbal and nonverbal AAC devices and methods to help express their wants and needs. Improving their ability to communicate will help improve their social interactions with others, understand the environment they are in, express their emotions and needs, and enhance their quality of life.

Social Skills
Early intervention includes developing improved social skills and learning aspects including making friends, taking turns, sharing, games, sports, and more. Social skills are essential for a child with IDD in helping to establish meaningful relationships and understanding how to react in social situations both present and as they grow older.

Adaptive Skills
Early intervention can additionally help to significantly improve a child’s quality of life with lessons on adaptive skills including dressing, eating, and other self-care skills. Learning to achieve daily living tasks can help to build confidence and allow children to grow their independence. 

Family Support
Early intervention isn’t just focused on the child, it is also essential for the caregivers and family members in receiving the education and support they need in order to help their child reach their fullest potential. By providing family members and caregivers the necessary tools and resources to help educate themselves and others surrounding them, early intervention can help to further support their child’s development. 

It has been statistically proven that early intervention is an investment in the general well-being and fulfilling life of a child with IDD. By providing adaptive skills, improving communication methods, and establishing social understanding and relationships, these methods will help children with IDD grow to thrive and live more fulfilling lives. Click here to access our downloadable PDF!