All learners develop at their own pace and in their own way. Taking a first step, smiling for the first time, or waving “bye-bye” are called developmental milestones. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, behave, and move. When children do not meet average milestones at or near the age they are expected to meet that milestone, we say that they are delayed. It is important to consult your child’s doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s progress in meeting their developmental milestones. After careful monitoring and screening, a child may be identified as “developmentally disabled”, an important step in ensuring that each child receives the educational, medical, rehabilitation, or Regional Center services and support he or she needs.
At the Institute for the Redesign of Learning, rather than labeling a child or adult as “disabled”, we hold that we are all learners (i.e. children, parents, teachers, therapists, etc.). As learners, we are all whole, able and complete just as we are and just as we are not. Our goal is to open possibilities for all learners to reach their full potential. Working in partnership, we empower learners to identify their concerns, and take the steps necessary to handle their concerns from daily living, to community accessibility, to work, job, and life-long learning skills. We are grateful and proud to join with others during the month of March to celebrate every learner and ensure that they are fully included in our communities!