A cognitive disorder or impairment (also known as an intellectual disability) is a term used when a person has certain limitations in mental functioning and in skills such as communication, self-help, and social skills. These limitations will cause a child to learn and develop more slowly than a typical child. It is diagnosed through the use of standardized tests of intelligence and adaptive behavior. It can be caused by injury, disease, genetic condition, or a brain abnormality. This can happen before a child is born or during childhood. For many children, the cause of their intellectual disability is not known.

How will this affect my child?

Children with intellectual disabilities may take longer to learn to speak, walk, and take care of their personal needs such as dressing or eating. They are likely to have trouble learning in school. They will learn, but it will take them longer.

Signs of cognitive impairment in children include:

Delayed motor skills, like walking later than other children

Delayed speech or difficulty speaking

Difficulty learning at grade level

Poor memory

Difficulty understanding consequences

Poor problem-solving skills

Difficulty with social rules

Lack of age-appropriate self-help skills 

Cognitive impairment can be caused by a number of factors, including injury, disease, genetic conditions, or brain abnormalities. For many children, the cause is unknown. 

Cognitive impairment is diagnosed through standardized tests of intelligence and adaptive behavior. 

Treatments

At Stonebridge Behavior Services, early intervention and consistent support can help your child thrive. While there is no cure for intellectual disability, our programs and services and at your child’s school can help your child learn at his or her own speed and gain the skills he or she needs to lead a satisfying life. Yet, your child may require services such as speech or occupational therapy, special education and transition care as he or she gets older. 

Key Points to Remember

Children with intellectual disabilities have limits on how much they can learn and function. They may be slower to learn, speak, walk and adapt to social situations than other children.

With an accurate and early diagnosis, your child can make better strides to a satisfying life.



There is no cure for intellectual disability, but your child can benefit from many resources available in your community as well as from strong support from all caregivers.