Developmental delay refers to a condition where a child up to the age of 7 experiences delayed development in comparison to peers, according to the Minnesota Department of Education. Successful milestones, such as your child's first step or first word often result in parental celebration. However, your child may not develop as expected, and understanding developmental delays will help you to cope with such situations.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developmental delays include both genetic and environmental factors, according to the How Kids Develop website. Genetically, children born with genetic or chromosomal abnormalities, such as with Down syndrome, face an increased risk of delay. Environmentally, exposure to harmful agents, such as drugs or infection, increase the chances of a developmental delay. Factors such as premature birth, severe poverty, malnutrition and maternal depression also increase the chances of a delay.The more risk factors your child experiences, the greater the risk for developmental delay.
Symptoms
Signs of developmental delay include behavioral, gross motor, hearing and vision symptoms, according to the How Kids Develop website. Behaviorally, your child may stare into space or rock back and forth. In regard to gross motor skills, your child may display limp posture in comparison to other children. Your child may show difficulty understanding directions after the age of 3 or not respond when called from across the room, indicating a hearing delay. Visually, he may appear cross-eyed or have unusual sized or colored eyes. If your child's development concerns you, communicate your concerns to your pediatrician.
Identification
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities recommends first talking with your pediatrician regarding any concerns with your child's development. If a significant delay concerns you, your pediatrician may suggest a developmental screening, which measures your child's general skills and development to create a broad indication of whether or not to refer your child for further evaluation. If the screening suggests further evaluation, a trained professional will make a profile of your child's strengths and weaknesses in regard to all areas of development. The developmental evaluation will determine what, if any, early intervention services would benefit your child.
Treatment
Early intervention services provide the majority of treatment for children with developmental delays. The National Institute on Developmental Delays defines early intervention services as special services provided during the child's first five years of life, promoting development and inclusion. These services may include physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech and language therapy, depending on your child's specific needs.
Prevention
Preventing developmental delays begins before birth. During pregnancy, make sure to avoid environmental factors that may cause delays, such as drugs and alcohol or poor maternal nutrition. The My Child Without Limits website also recommends ensuring proper prenatal care to reduce the chances of premature birth, which increases the chance of developmental delay. After birth, keep your child up-to-date with his immunizations in order to avoid illnesses that may lead to a delay.
References
- Minnesota Department of Education: Developmental Delay
- How Kids Develop: What Is Developmental Delay and What Services Are Available If I Think My Child Might Be Delayed?
- National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities: Developmental Delay
- National Institute on Developmental Delays: Early Intervention
- My Child Without Limits: Developmental Delay
