PowerPoint:

Introduction to Intellectual Disability

This presentation provides an overview of the definitions, causes, classifications, and supports for children with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing early identification and family-centered intervention. It reviews key diagnostic frameworks from IDEA, APA, AAIDD, and WHO, highlighting deficits in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior that impact daily life. The presentation explores diagnostic processes, assessment tools, and distinctions between mild and severe intellectual disability, while examining co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, autism, and sensory impairments. Educational sections focus on individualized supports, inclusive teaching, and recreation-based socialization, with guidance for addressing behavioral and emotional needs. Through case studies, videos, and reflection activities, participants learn to design plans for children and families that strengthen collaboration, trust, and inclusive participation across home, school, and community settings.

 

Case Study: Intellectual Disability

Eli is a 4-year-old boy with Smith-Magenis Syndrome, presenting with global developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, and emerging behavioral concerns. Follow Eli and his family as they navigate diagnosis, assessment, IFSP planning, and early intervention services.

Sample Learning Activities: Intellectual Disabilities

Video Library The video library is a compilation of almost 500 videos that may be used in early childhood intervention pre-service courses or in-service training. Each video contains the following relevant information:

• Title with a description
• Link to video
• Suggested citation
• Length of the video
• EI/ECSE standard
• DEC Recommended Practice

Websites: Provide information and resources that relate to the competency area and topics.

• American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD): Educational Videos
• The Arc
• Birth to 5: Watch me Thrive!
• Bright Futures
• Center for Parent Information & Resources: Intellectual Disability
• CDC: Developmental Disabilities
• CDC: Learn the Signs. Act Early
• CDC: Watch me! Celebrating milestones and sharing concerns
• Community of Practice for supporting families with IDD
• The Early Childhood Personnel Center (ECPC): Video library
• NIH: Eunice Kennedy Shrive National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
• Special Olympics: Center for Inclusive Health: https://inclusivehealth.specialolympics.org/approach/what-is-intellectual-disabilityWhat is intellectual disability?

Learning Modules

• IRIS: Inclusion of students with significant cognitive disabilities: Supports in the general education classroom
• MHDD Center: Intellectual Disability 10