You don’t have to be a parent to know every child is unique. Every child has their own strengths, challenges and ways of interacting with the world. While some disabilities are immediately apparent, others remain hidden beneath the surface, often going unnoticed for years.
These "hidden disabilities" can include conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, anxiety disorders and sensory processing disorders. Diagnosing these conditions early is crucial for providing children with the support they need to thrive. However, the process of identifying hidden disabilities can be complex and fraught with challenges.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is an opportunity to understand, advocate for and encourage inclusivity for those experiencing life with disabilities.
What are hidden disabilities?
Hidden disabilities are conditions that aren’t immediately visible to others but will significantly impact a child’s daily life. These disabilities often affect learning, behavior, social interactions and emotional regulation. For example, a child with ADHD may struggle to focus in class at school but appear perfectly healthy. Similarly, a child with dyslexia may have difficulty reading but excel in other areas, masking their challenges.
Because these disabilities aren't always obvious, they’re often misunderstood or overlooked. Parents, teachers and even health care providers may attribute a child’s struggles to laziness, lack of effort or behavioral issues. This misunderstanding often delays the diagnosis and intervention, leaving children without the tools they need to succeed.
The importance of early diagnosis
Early diagnosis of hidden disabilities is critical for several reasons. First, it allows children to access appropriate interventions, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy or specialized educational support. These interventions can help children develop coping strategies, improve their skills and build confidence.
Second, early diagnosis can prevent secondary issues, such as low self-esteem, anxiety or depression, which often arise when children struggle without understanding why. For example, a child with undiagnosed dyslexia may feel frustrated and inadequate when they can’t keep up with their peers in reading. Over time, this frustration can lead to a loss of motivation and a negative self-image.
In addition, early diagnosis helps parents and educators better understand the child’s specific needs. When adults recognize that a child’s challenges stem from a disability rather than a lack of effort, they can respond with empathy and support rather than frustration or punishment.
The staggering reality of children struggling with hidden disabilities today
The prevalence of hidden disabilities in children highlights the importance of awareness and early intervention. Nearly 20% of children between the ages of 3 and 17 were diagnosed with a developmental disability between 2009 and 2017. Consider the following statistics:
- ADHD: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 7 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD. Boys are more than twice as likely as girls to receive this diagnosis.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder: The CDC estimates that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has “been identified with autism spectrum disorder.” Early signs often appear by age 2, but many children are not diagnosed until much later.
- Dyslexia: Dyslexia affects about 20% of the population, making it one of the most common learning disabilities. Despite its prevalence, many children experiencing dyslexia aren’t diagnosed until they have already fallen behind in school.
- Sensory Processing Disorder: While exact prevalence rates are unclear, studies suggest that up to 16% of school-age children may experience sensory processing challenges, which can affect their ability to tolerate certain sounds, textures or environments.
You are not alone
At Buckner, we offer different prevention and early intervention (PEI) programs designed to support families in early childhood and beyond, such as Healthy Outcomes through Prevention and Early Support (HOPES) in Beaumont and Longview.
We also have the Family and Youth Success (FAYS) program in Beaumont and the Rio Grande Valley to walk with both children and parents through conflict and overcoming challenges.
Buckner Family Hope Center® programs provide family strengthening through after-school programs, summer camps and classes, as well as community-building opportunities. Our family coaches are trained to connect families to resources within our programs as well as services in the community like counseling and other critical aid.
Hidden disabilities may not be visible, but their impact on a child’s life can be profound. By increasing awareness, reducing stigma and prioritizing early diagnosis, we can ensure children with hidden disabilities receive the support they need to reach their full potential.
Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and understanding their unique challenges is the first step toward helping them succeed.
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