Expert: James Michael Roan - 10/6/2007

Question
I just received a diagnosis that my son is Developmentally Delayed with a Cognitive score of <55.  Is being developmentally delayed considered a disability?  His IEP says he's ECDD.  He will start school next week and I want him to have any and all of the necessary treatments and therapies out there.  I also want to see what programs he may qualify for to help pay for these therapies.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Cristal;

Having a developmental delay is considered a temporary condition by most states and, therefore, not a "formal" disability. You would have to check with the Department of Disability in your state if that is what you are asking me.

I am really not in a position to recommend any therapy since I don't have all the assessment results nor do I know what services are available at your school district.

I'm sorry I can't help more. Does he have autism?

Kind regards,
James