Disabilities

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Blindness or Visual Impairment

Deaf or Hard of Hearing

​Autism is a complex neurological disorder that continues to be heavily researched to identify
root causes and effective supports. Autism is primarily a disorder of brain connectivity: the brain
is wired differently, and results in the manifestation of a broad range of behaviors that
characterize the disorder.
Current terminology refers to autism as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD. This spectrum of
behaviors sometimes can present as overwhelming to the lay person. As is true in all areas of
disability, with autism it is of utmost importance to assume competence.
Autism is not a disorder of intellect but rather of the ability to demonstrate intellect.
Resources from NCPD
​Autism and Faith Video

 Vision impairment is defined as full or partial blindness of one or both eyes. Blindness is not a cognitive impairment, unless it is accompanied by an intellectual disorder. The child with vision impairment deserves the same information, education, and experiences which sighted children deserve.  
​Resources from NCPD
Xavier Society video

​Deafness can be defined in many ways, but is generally acknowledged to be partially or wholly deprived of the sense of hearing. Hearing loss can be diagnosed at birth or occur later in life due to accidents, illness or deterioration. Other children, while not deaf, may have a hearing impairment. These children may also face challenges in the catechetical setting and need accommodations. 
Resources from NCPD

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Developmental disabilities are impairments in physical, learning, language, or behavior that begin during the developmental stage and typically last throughout a person’s lifespan (CDC). An example of a developmental disability is cerebral palsy, which is a motor disability that prevents a person’s ability to move their muscles (CDC)​. Developmental disabilities include--but are not limited to--intellectual disabilities which limit a person’s adaptive functioning in conceptual, practical, and social domains (APA). Intellectual disabilities include autism spectrum disorder, down syndrome, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.  
Resources from NCPD

Mental Illness

Mental Illness is a disease that causes mild to severe disturbances in thought and/or behavior, resulting in an inability to cope with life's ordinary demands and routines (Mental Health America). One in four families will at some time have to cope with mental illness and its effects on a loved one and the family unit.   
​Resources from NCPD

Physical Disability

​Types of physical disabilities include traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis, and spina bifida.  
​Resources from NCPD