Developmental Disability Awareness in Child Welfare

March is Developmental Disabilities Month and it’s a great time to bring awareness to the overrepresentation of parents and children with developmental disabilities among families interacting with public child welfare agencies[1]^{, [2]}. Increasing awareness of developmental disabilities within child welfare is essential for creating a better system for both parents and children.

Parents with developmental disabilities need tailored support as they may face barriers in accessing services or navigating the child welfare system. Child welfare agencies with a strong understanding of developmental disabilities can provide the guidance and resources needed for both parents and children, fostering healthier, more supportive family environments.

Furthermore, early intervention can be critical in helping children with disabilities thrive. When child welfare professionals are trained to recognize the signs of developmental disabilities and understand how to access early intervention services, they are better equipped to intervene effectively and ensure that children can be assessed and receive the right services.

As we observe Developmental Disabilities Month, it’s a timely reminder of the need for continued education, advocacy, and system-wide awareness to better serve families and promote healthier, more stable futures.

Interested in learning more? Check out this podcast series on Disability and Child Welfare!

1. [1] Traci LaLiberte, Kristine Piescher, Nicole Mickelson, Mi Hwa Lee. (2024). The overrepresentation of parents with disabilities in child protection. Children and Youth Services Review, 158.

   [2] Christina Tortorelli, Peter Choate, Dorothy Badry. (2023). Chapter Five – Disrupted life narratives of children in care with neurodevelopmental disabilities: Whose story is it?, Editor: W. Ben Gibbard, Developments in Neuroethics and Bioethics, Academic Press, Volume 6.