Warning Signs That Your Child is Disabled

Thinking about your baby as having some sort of disability in life is a terrifying thought. However, most first-time parents are especially paranoid that their child isn't meeting all their developmental milestones. Rest easy in knowing that the majority of children are perfectly fine. However, it is good to know the warning signs of possible disabilities.

Hearing impairment is a possibility, so look for the signs. That way, treatment can be sought as early as possible. Does your child jump when a sudden, loud noise occurs? Does he turn his head to look where a voice or unfamiliar sound is coming from? Your pediatrician has probably asked certain questions about your child's reaction to noise at well-baby visits, and that is why; he is checking for any signs of hearing impairment.

Impairment of your child's vision is something else you will watch for. The first and most obvious sign may be a visible change in the eyes' appearance. Also, you will want to take notice if your child's coordination is very clumsy, if he squints or rubs his eyes, if one eye seems to drift off, or if he is excessively crossing his eyes (don't worry if his eyes occasionally cross in the first months).

The rates of autism have seemed to soar in recent years, but some experts chalk that up to proper diagnosing. Whereas previously, mildly autistic children were slipping through the cracks and not being diagnosed. Here are some early signs that may indicate autism: failure to look into your eyes as you speak, the dislike of being touched or held, the lack of babbling or speech, the sudden halt of babbling or speech, and head banging.

Just because your child may exhibit a few of the before mentioned symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean he is impaired. A proper diagnosis will be much more complex than this. However, it is good to keep an eye out for any irregularities in your child's development. Don't make yourself sick with worry, just be sure to trust your instincts. The earlier impairment is detected, the better it is for your child.