March marks Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), a time to recognize and reflect on the experiences of people with developmental disabilities and their family caregivers. Developmental disabilities encompass a group of conditions that affect physical, learning, language, or behavioral development. These conditions include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy, Language Disorders, and Sensory Disabilities such as hearing loss and vision impairment.
Disabilities Awareness Month promotes inclusion, equity, and understanding while raising awareness about the barriers faced by individuals with developmental disabilities. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and potential, acknowledge progress in the field, and strengthen advocacy within caregiving communities.