“Every March, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) and its partners collaborate to lead Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). The annual campaign highlights how people with and without disabilities come together to form strong communities. [1]
NACDD’s 2025 theme, We’re Here All Year, emphasizing that community, accessibility, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities should be recognized and championed every day—not just in March.
This month reminds us that individuals with developmental disabilities are valuable members of our communities and deserve full participation in all aspects of life, including education, employment, recreation, and civic engagement.” [1]
History of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
“Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month was made official in 1987 when US President Ronald Reagan recognized the event. The stated purpose was to increase public awareness of the needs as well as the potential of Americans who have disabilities. In addition, the event is also celebrated as a way to provide encouragement and resources to help them to achieve their full potential and lead productive lives.
While the term developmental disabilities can refer to a wide range of situations and struggles, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines it as an impairment in physical, language, learning or behavioral areas. This may include diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, down syndrome learning disabilities, ADHD, hearing loss, vision impairment or other developmental delays.
Today, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is supported and observed by a number of different non-profit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions and other groups. These thirty-one days offer a perfect opportunity to learn, grow, encourage, support and share in families, schools, communities, cities and all across the globe!” [2]
What are some Developmental Disabilities?
“Developmental disabilities are a diverse group of conditions that may affect physical, cognitive, or social development. These can include (but are not limited to):
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Learning Disabilities
- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Epilepsy
- Language Disorders
- Sensory Disabilities (such as hearing loss and vision impairment)” [5]
5 Facts About Disabilities
1) “Eugenics was used as a counter
In the early 20th century, it was thought that disabilities could be “cured” through the application of eugenics, which was later discredited as a movement.
2)‘Feeble-minded’ was a descriptive term
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, people with developmental or intellectual disabilities were referred to as ‘feeble-minded,’ ‘idiots,’ or ‘imbeciles.’
3) The cut-off age is 22
According to the N.A.C.D.D., in order to qualify as a developmental disability, the disability has to occur in individuals younger than 22 years.
4) Schizophrenia was misnamed
Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler first used the word ‘autism’ for a kind of schizophrenia.
5) 70 is the cut-off for intellectual disability
An I.Q. score of less than 70 qualifies a person as intellectually disabled.” [3]
How to Get Involved
“Engage with this pivotal movement and make a difference with the following actions:
- Participate in Local Events: Join workshops, seminars, or inclusive activities in your community celebrating the month.
- Educate & Advocate: Share informative resources, stories, and statistics about developmental disabilities on social platforms.
- Support Organizations: Contribute to, or volunteer with, organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Promote Inclusivity: Encourage schools, workplaces, and community centers to adopt inclusive practices and programs.
- Listen & Learn: Engage with individuals with developmental disabilities, listening to their experiences and perspectives, and learn from them.” [4]
Relevant Hashtags Boost the conversation online and spread awareness with these pertinent hashtags:
#DevDisabilitiesAwareness2025 #InclusionMatters #CelebrateDifferences #EveryAbilityCounts #AdvocateInclusivity
Resources
[1] https://nacdd.org/ddam2025/
[2] https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/developmental-disability-awareness-month/
[3] https://nationaltoday.com/national-developmental-disabilities-awareness-month/
[5] https://www.twinkl.com/event/developmental-disabilities-awareness-month-usa-2025