Recognizing developmental issues early in children can greatly improve intervention outcomes. While every child develops at their own pace, there are certain visual indicators that might suggest a need for further evaluation:
1. Motor Skills
- Delayed milestones: Not sitting, crawling, or walking at the expected age.
- Abnormal movements: Stiff or floppy limbs, tremors, or an unusual gait.
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks: Trouble holding objects, using utensils, or manipulating small items.
2. Social and Emotional Signs
- Limited eye contact: Avoiding gaze or not responding to facial expressions.
- Lack of social interest: Not engaging with peers or adults, preferring to play alone.
- Difficulty expressing emotions: Excessive temper tantrums or inability to show affection.
- Lack of imitation: Not mimicking sounds, gestures, or activities of others.
3. Speech and Language
- Delayed speech: Few or no words by 18 months, or lack of meaningful phrases by 2 years.
- Unusual speech patterns: Echolalia (repeating what others say), monotone voice, or difficulty articulating words.
- Not responding to their name: By 12 months, lack of recognition of their name can be a concern.
4. Cognitive Development
- Difficulty with problem-solving: Struggles to complete age-appropriate puzzles or tasks.
- Short attention span: Difficulty staying focused compared to peers.
- Inconsistent skills: Proficiency in some areas (e.g., memory) but marked delays in others (e.g., reasoning).
5. Behavioral Indicators
- Repetitive behaviors: Flapping hands, spinning, or rigid routines.
- Extreme sensitivity: Overreacting to sounds, textures, lights, or other stimuli.
- Aggression or withdrawal: Unexplained outbursts or avoiding interaction altogether.
6. Physical Appearance
- Unusual physical features: Facial asymmetry, unusually shaped head, or noticeable growth differences.
- Strabismus (crossed eyes): May indicate a visual or neurological issue.
- Poor coordination: Clumsiness or frequent falling.
7. Play and Interaction
- Lack of pretend play: By age 2, not engaging in make-believe activities
Disclaimer: This article is opinion and not written by American Behavioral Consulting or any affiliated company, physician, or person. This is a sample article written by the developer Rob Brenner.
