Signs of Developmental Delay in Children

Parenting comes with plenty of questions, especially when it comes to your child’s development. Pediatrician visits and milestone questionnaires can sometimes leave parents wondering whether their child is progressing as expected or if certain behaviors could be signs of a developmental delay.

As a mother, pediatric physical therapist, and Movement Expert for Enfamil, I know how overwhelming these concerns can feel. Understanding developmental milestones and recognizing possible signs of delay can help parents feel more informed and prepared to advocate for their child when needed. Here are some developmental delay signs parents can watch for and when it may be time to talk with a pediatrician.

What Is Developmental Delay?

First, let’s define developmental delay. The term is used when a child has not met the developmental milestones expected for their current age.¹ It’s important to remember that if your child was born prematurely (before 37 weeks), we need to adjust their age when looking at expected milestones. Delays can occur in any area, including:²

• Speech and language
• Fine and gross motor function
• Cognitive development
• Play
• Self-help
• Social skills

If you suspect your child might be delayed in one or more areas, a formal evaluation will help determine their exact needs.

Related: Baby Milestones Month by Month: Your Baby’s First Year Guide

What Causes Developmental Delays?

Various things can contribute to developmental delays, including prematurity, genetic conditions, neurologic conditions, and other medical diagnoses. Often, the cause of the delay is unknown. Working with your child’s healthcare providers can help identify whether an underlying condition may be affecting development and guide the best next steps for support and treatment. Doctors and therapists use evidence-based screening and assessment tools to help identify children falling behind in one or more areas of development.

Research has shown that the earlier we can identify developmental delays and refer them to the appropriate providers, the better the outcomes are for that child.

A child’s brain is especially adaptable and able to form new connections in the first three years of a child’s life. This is a critical time frame to intervene and give children the best chances for good outcomes in the future.^3,4,5

Related: Developmental Milestones: Is My Child on Track?

Developmental Delay Signs Parents Can Watch For

Since we know that early intervention is key to improving outcomes, it can be helpful for your child’s doctor to gain insight into your child’s development from you. You are the ultimate expert when it comes to your child. It can be helpful to keep notes and questions about your child’s development and bring them to your next doctor’s visit.

The following are some signs of delays in the realm of motor development that you can watch for that could warrant a chat with your pediatrician.⁶

• A plateau in development or no new skills for a month or longer
• Using one side of the body more often or differently than the other
• Difficulty holding the head up during tummy time at 3 months
• Limited interest in toys or using hands to manipulate objects at 4 months and older
• Not sitting independently by 9 months
• Excessive stiffness or floppiness in the arms, legs, or trunk
• Not standing or bearing weight through the legs by 12 months
• Not walking by 18 months
• Clumsiness, coordination challenges, or difficulty keeping up with peers in preschool or school-age years

What To Do If You Suspect a Developmental Delay

Learning that your child may need additional support can feel emotional and overwhelming. The good news is that many developmental services and resources are available to help children build skills and reach their full potential.

Talk to Your Doctor

Remember that every child is different, and it’s important to recognize everything your child CAN do and the things they might be struggling with. What is normal for one child may not be typical for another. If you notice any of these signs of developmental delay in your children listed above, the first step is to talk with your child’s pediatrician.

Don’t hesitate to be persistent or advocate for referrals if you have concerns. In most instances, you can even seek out developmental evaluations for your child without a doctor’s referral.

Do Your Research

Every state in the U.S. has a state-funded early intervention program that offers free or low-cost developmental services for children from birth to age three. Families can self-refer to this federally mandated program.

Other options for assistance in your area may include private clinics, hospital-based programs, home health agencies, and more. Services are available through the public school system for children aged 3 and older.

Related: Baby Milestone Anxiety: What to Do When Your Baby Is Not On Track

Remember To Give Yourself Grace

It may seem scary or overwhelming to get your child evaluated by a physical therapist, occupational therapist, behavioral therapist, or speech therapist. Still, you will gain invaluable insight into your child’s specific strengths and needs.

Remember, your child is perfect no matter where they fall on the development spectrum. Early intervention for developmental delays will give them the support they need to truly thrive along their unique developmental journey.

Developmental milestones are helpful tools for understanding how children grow and learn, but every child develops at their own pace. If you notice signs that concern you, trust your instincts and talk with your pediatrician. Early support and intervention can make a meaningful difference, and seeking guidance is never a sign that you’ve done anything wrong as a parent. The goal is not perfection but making sure your child has the support they need to thrive.