By DrSensory — Supporting Development Through Trusted Therapists
📌 What Is This?
This checklist helps parents and caregivers identify early signs of potential intellectual disability (ID) in children and know when to seek support. If you check several boxes, consider a full developmental evaluation by a pediatrician, psychologist, or therapist.
🧠 Cognitive & Developmental Signs
☐ My child has significant delays in sitting, crawling, or walking
☐ My child speaks later than other children or uses fewer words
☐ My child struggles to follow directions or routines
☐ My child has trouble solving simple problems or puzzles
☐ My child forgets how to do tasks they’ve previously learned
🗣️ Communication & Social Skills
☐ My child has trouble expressing wants, needs, or feelings
☐ My child struggles to understand others or follow conversations
☐ My child avoids social interaction or play with peers
☐ My child has difficulty adjusting to changes in routine
☐ My child becomes frustrated easily when trying to communicate
🧩 Learning & School Performance
☐ My child is behind grade level in reading, math, or writing
☐ My child requires repeated instruction to learn new things
☐ My child has difficulty focusing or completing tasks
☐ My child receives special education services or accommodations
☐ My child becomes overwhelmed in classroom or group settings
🧼 Daily Living & Adaptive Skills
☐ My child needs help with dressing, feeding, or hygiene at an older age
☐ My child struggles with time concepts like “before” and “after”
☐ My child cannot manage basic safety (e.g., crossing the street)
☐ My child has difficulty with money, chores, or independence
☐ My child needs constant supervision in familiar environments
✅ What To Do If You’re Concerned
📅 Schedule a developmental evaluation with your pediatrician
🧠 Request cognitive and adaptive behavior assessments (IQ, Vineland, ABAS)
🗣️ Connect with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) for communication support
✋ Reach out to occupational or physical therapists if motor skills are delayed
🏫 Ask your school about early intervention or an IEP/504 plan
👉 Find a Pediatric Therapist Near You with DrSensory
💡 Reminder for Parents:
A diagnosis of intellectual disability is not the end of the story. With love, the right support team, and individualized therapies, your child can make meaningful progress and live a fulfilling life.
See Therapist Database
Speech Therapy
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
