Understanding Developmental Delays
As your child progresses through infancy and becomes a toddler, he should be reaching specific developmental milestones in fine motor skills, language, thinking and social skills. Not every child reaches these milestones at the same rate or pace; some are months, or even years behind.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, by the age of 12 months he should be able to pull himself to a standing position, walk while holding onto furniture, try to imitate sounds and words and speak simple words such as "mama" and "dada." If he is unable to do these things, he may be suffering from a developmental delay. A variety of causes might be holding him back.
Premature Birth
Children who were born prematurely or were low birth weight may not suffer from physical delays, but they are prone to delays in thinking, social and behavioral skills, according to the American Psychological Association. In a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, 61 percent of pre-term children were either in special needs classes in school or performed poorly academically, scoring lower on achievement tests than children who were born full-term.
Genetic Disorders
According to the University of Michigan Health System, genetic disorders, such as Down Syndrome, also can contribute to developmental delays. When a child is conceived, she receives 23 sets of chromosomes that are comprised of genes. The genes are responsible for protein production, the key to carrying out body functions, as well as development and growth. If any of these chromosomes are mutated or if there are extra chromosomes, it can result in too few proteins being produced or proteins being produced incorrectly. This can cause physical deformities, neurological abnormalities and abnormal organ function.
Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning, a problem that builds up over time, is caused by repeated contact with objects containing the heavy metal toxin. Lead can be found in some jewelry and paint chips from an older home. It is considered a neurotoxin and is extremely detrimental to children. High levels of exposure can damage the developing brain and nervous system, resulting in hearing loss, growth problems, muscle weakness, and learning and behavioral problems.
Intervention
Knowing the causes of developmental delays and the symptoms they produce can help you provide early intervention for your child. Depending on the cause and severity of your child's delay, you may be able to reverse the delay or improve her weaknesses. Each state has an early intervention program; you need to locate the best program for your child.
