Early Signs of Developmental Delay in Children

Children undergo many changes at a young age and reach numerous growth and development milestones, such as sitting up on their own or learning to walk. Missing key milestones can be a sign of a possible developmental delay. The experienced providers at T.L.C. Pediatrics in Norwalk, CT, screen for developmental delays during your child’s regular well visits and develop individualized treatment plans to address delays if present. 

Types of Developmental Delays

Different developmental delays are separated into four main categories: Sensory, degenerative, metabolic, and nervous system delays. Examples of different types of developmental delays across these categories include:

• Speech delays
• Learning disabilities
• Intellectual disabilities 
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Vision or hearing impairments 
• Down syndrome
• Cerebral palsy
• Spina bifida

Signs of Developmental Delays

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that one out of four children between the ages of 0-5 years is at risk for a developmental delay. Our pediatric providers perform screenings at certain well visits. However, it is also important for parents to watch for signs of a possible delay that might become evident between regular well visits. Such signs are an indication that further screening and assessments could be needed.

Early signs of possible developmental delays in children include: 

• Poor eye contact 
• Limited facial expressions
• Problems with coordination
• Delays in sitting up, rolling over, crawling, or walking
• Difficulty holding the head and neck steady
• Muscles are stiff or floppy 
• A delay in learning to talk
• An unusual gait 

As young children age, additional signs of a developmental delay might become more apparent. These signs include impulsiveness, hyperactivity, difficulty following rules, and the inability to connect specific actions with consequences. 

Developmental Screenings & Assessments

Developmental screenings and assessments help identify specific developmental delays so an appropriate treatment plan can be developed. These tools assess development in several areas, such as language, cognition, movement, behavior, and emotions. The pediatricians at our office in Norwalk, CT, check for developmental delays regularly and perform general screenings during certain visits in line with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations.

Early intervention can correct some delays so the child eventually catches up to their peers. For example, speech therapy addresses delays in talking and can help kids catch up to where they are expected to be for their age. Other types of developmental delays can be lifelong, such as autism spectrum disorder. Treatment and intervention services help children with persistent developmental delays improve in areas where they may struggle so they can thrive.  

Certain signs, such as reaching milestones late, can indicate a possible developmental delay. Early intervention and treatment can help kids overcome some types of delays and learn to manage those that are lifelong. Call T.L.C. Pediatrics in Norwalk, CT, at (203) 855-7551 to schedule an appointment to have your child screened for a developmental delay.