about mental retardation

The person may have trouble learning. It may take longer for the person to learn social skills, such as how to be friends or how to communicate with other people. The person also may be less able to care for himself or herself and to live on his or her own as an adult.

Sometimes kids who have mental retardation get teased or bullied. This is especially sad because these kids really need friends and people who will be kind to them. Just because they have learning problems doesn't mean they don't have feelings! Just like you, these kids want to be liked and to have fun at school.

During school, a kid with mental retardation will probably need help. Some kids have aides that stay with them during the school day. Special education and other services are available to help with learning and behavior.

They can also receive help in learning "life skills." Life skills are the skills people need to take care of themselves as they get older, such as how to ride a public bus to get to work. More and more, people with mental retardation are able to have jobs and to live independently.