Special Needs

If your child has special needs, it’s crucial they meet regularly with a qualified pediatrician. Routine checkups and screenings can improve their quality of life and increase their independence. At Angel Kids Pediatrics, with multiple locations in Jacksonville and St. Johns, Florida, the team of expert pediatricians has years of experience serving children and teenagers with special needs. No matter your child’s disabilities, the team can help. Call the nearest office to request a special needs consultation for your child today or request an appointment online. 

What are special needs?

Special needs is a pediatric subspecialty that diagnoses and treats children and teens with disabilities. 

At Angel Kids Pediatrics, the team specializes in treating the four major types of disabilities, including:

• Physical disorders
• Developmental disorders
• Behavioral (or emotional) disorders
• Sensory impaired disorders

After a review of your child’s health charts, a discussion of their symptoms, and a complete physical exam, the team can make treatment recommendations.

Who can benefit from special needs care?

Your child might benefit from special needs care if they have a developmental disorder. These disorders can impact various aspects of your child’s well-being, including their:

• Mobility
• Biological function
• Cognition (learning ability)
• Physical and emotional independence
• Language
• Social skills

Certain health problems may even affect their five senses and perception.

Some children are born with special needs; others develop them later on, as a result of trauma, injury, or other medical factors.

What types of health problems does special needs care treat?

At Angel Kids Pediatrics, the team uses special needs care to treat various pediatric health problems, including:

Autism

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects your child’s ability to communicate or socialize with others. Symptoms occur on a spectrum from mild to severe. There’s no cure, but various treatments can relieve uncomfortable symptoms and improve your child’s quality of life.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD affects your child’s ability to sit still, focus, or stay on task. Without treatment, it can affect their performance at school or work.

Intellectual disorders

These disorders cause a lower capacity for reasoning and learning. Examples of intellectual disorders include Down syndrome, developmental delay, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

Physical challenges

Children with physical challenges may need to use assistive devices, such as crutches or a wheelchair. The Angel Kids Pediatrics team can help your child use these items and encourage their independence.

What are the treatment options for children with special needs?

If your child has special needs, there are various treatments that can help them better manage the condition.

The Angel Kids Pediatric team might recommend physical therapy, prescription medication, counseling, or a combination of all three. If necessary, they can even refer your child to a nearby specialist.

Call the nearest Angel Kids Pediatrics office to schedule special needs care for your child today or request an appointment online.