March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to honor, support, and raise awareness about the strengths and challenges of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). At Dolphin House Child Advocacy Center, we proudly serve children and families across all populations, including those in the IDD community. It’s important to recognize that children with developmental disabilities are not only deserving of the same care and advocacy as their peers—but they are also disproportionately at risk for abuse and neglect.
Understanding the Risks Faced by Children with IDD
Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities face significantly higher rates of abuse and exploitation compared to children without disabilities. Studies show:
- Children with developmental disabilities are 3 to 4 times more likely to experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse or neglect than their typically developing peers.
- Children with disabilities are 2.9 times more likely to be sexually abused than children without disabilities, and those with intellectual disabilities show even greater risk.
- People with developmental disabilities are 4 to 10 times more likely to be victims of crime, including violent crime, compared to those without disabilities.
- In some research, more than 90% of people with developmental disabilities experience sexual abuse at some point in their lives, and many experience multiple incidents.
These sobering statistics highlight that children and adults with IDD are among the most vulnerable and underserved victims of abuse. Barriers such as communication challenges, dependency on caregivers, social isolation, and underreporting contribute to these elevated risks, often making abuse harder to detect and address.
Why Awareness Matters
During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we emphasize that:
- Prevention starts with understanding — knowing the heightened risks helps caregivers, professionals, and communities take proactive steps to keep children safe.
- Everyone deserves to be seen and heard — children with communication or cognitive differences may struggle to report abuse without tailored support.
- Inclusive services are essential — advocacy centers, law enforcement, educators, healthcare providers, and families must work together to ensure safety and dignity for all children.
How Dolphin House Supports Children with IDD
At Dolphin House, we are committed to providing trauma-informed care that meets the unique needs of every child we serve. Our multidisciplinary team works to:
- Offer sensitive, child-focused interviews and advocacy
- Coordinate with professionals trained in working with children who have communication differences
- Provide referrals for therapy and support tailored to each child’s developmental needs
We believe every child deserves a safe environment, compassionate care, and a voice that is truly heard.
Join Us in Raising Awareness
This March, we invite our community to learn more, spread the word, and be an ally for children with developmental disabilities. Share trusted resources, engage in conversations about inclusion and safety, and support programs that empower families and protect vulnerable children.
Thank you for standing with Dolphin House as we work to ensure that all children — including those in the IDD population — live free from abuse and fear. Together, we can make our community safer and more supportive for every child.
💙 If you or someone you know needs assistance or support, please contact Dolphin House Child Advocacy Center.