Every child develops at their own pace, but there are key milestones that help parents track their child’s progress in areas like speech, movement, and social skills. While some children may take a little longer to reach these milestones, persistent delays could indicate the need for early intervention. Recognizing the early signs of developmental delays and knowing when to seek help can make a significant difference in your child’s growth and long-term success.
What Are Developmental Delays?
A developmental delay occurs when a child does not reach expected milestones at the typical age. These delays can affect various areas of development, including:
- Speech and language – Difficulty making sounds, forming words, or understanding language
- Motor skills – Challenges with crawling, walking, grasping objects, or fine motor coordination
- Social and emotional skills – Difficulty making eye contact, engaging with others, or managing emotions
- Cognitive abilities – Struggling with problem-solving, learning, or attention span
Understanding these delays early allows parents to seek the right support and interventions for their child.
Early Signs of Developmental Delays by Age
Infants (0-12 Months)
🔹 Lack of eye contact or social smiling by 3 months
🔹 No response to sounds or voices by 6 months
🔹 Limited babbling or cooing by 9 months
🔹 Difficulty rolling over, sitting up, or reaching for objects by 9-12 months
Toddlers (1-3 Years)
🔹 Not saying single words by 18 months or simple phrases by 2 years
🔹 Trouble following simple directions or understanding basic words
🔹 Difficulty walking or frequent falls after 18 months
🔹 Limited interest in playing with toys or interacting with others
🔹 Intense tantrums or difficulty managing emotions beyond typical toddler frustration
Preschoolers (3-5 Years)
🔹 Limited vocabulary or difficulty forming complete sentences
🔹 Trouble with fine motor skills, such as using utensils, holding crayons, or dressing
🔹 Difficulty playing with peers, taking turns, or following rules
🔹 Sensory sensitivities, such as extreme reactions to noise, touch, or textures
🔹 Persistent difficulty paying attention or following routines
When to Seek Help
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s important to talk to a pediatrician or developmental specialist. Early intervention services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral therapy, can help children build the skills they need to thrive.
Next Steps for Parents
1️⃣ Track your child’s milestones – Keep a record of their development and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
2️⃣ Consult a professional – Pediatricians, speech therapists, and occupational therapists can assess your child’s progress.
3️⃣ Explore early intervention services – Many programs offer free or low-cost therapy for young children.
4️⃣ Engage in developmental activities at home – Reading, talking, and playing with your child daily can encourage progress.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing early signs of developmental delays and seeking help as soon as possible can have a profound impact on your child’s future. If you have concerns, trust your instincts and reach out for guidance.
At My Favorite Therapists, we specialize in early intervention services to help children reach their full potential. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s development!
