Intellectual disability

Intellectual disability is a term used when a person has certain limitations in cognitive functioning and skills, including communication, social and self-care skills. These limitations can cause a child to develop and learn more slowly or differently than a typically developing child. Intellectual disability can happen any time before a child turns 18 years old, even before birth. Intellectual disability is the most common developmental disability.

In some countries like the UK learning disability is the primary term used for intellectual disability. In other countries, it is used as a completely different term. It is best to check the language of your country to ensure using the right terminology.

Definition adapted from specialolypmics.org.