Early Signs of Developmental Delays: What Parents Should Know

Every child grows at their own pace, but some may experience developmental delays that require early intervention. Recognizing the signs early can help parents seek timely medical guidance and support to ensure their child’s healthy development.

Key Developmental Areas to Watch

1. Motor Skills Development

By 6 months, babies should be able to hold their heads up and start reaching for objects.
By 12 months, most babies sit without support, crawl, and pull themselves to stand.
By 18 months, toddlers should walk independently and start using their hands effectively.
Delays may include difficulty in holding objects, poor coordination, or not attempting to move.

2. Speech and Language Development

By 6 months, babies should respond to sounds and coo or babble.
By 12 months, they should say simple words like "mama" or "dada."
By 2 years, children should form two-word phrases and follow simple instructions.
Concerns arise when a child doesn’t respond to their name, doesn’t attempt to speak, or has limited gestures.

3. Social and Emotional Development

By 6 months, babies should smile at people and show affection.
By 12 months, they should enjoy playing peek-a-boo and exhibit stranger anxiety.
By 3 years, children should play with other kids and express emotions appropriately.
Warning signs include a lack of eye contact, extreme shyness, or difficulty in understanding emotions.

4. Cognitive and Learning Development

By 12 months, babies should explore objects and respond to simple instructions.
By 2 years, toddlers should engage in pretend play and recognize common objects.
By 4 years, children should solve simple puzzles and understand basic concepts.
Delays may involve difficulty in recognizing objects, inability to follow directions, or lack of curiosity.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Parents should consult a pediatrician if they notice:

No eye contact or social engagement by 6 months.
No babbling or words by 12 months.
Limited mobility or difficulty in walking by 18 months.
Any loss of skills at any age.

Why Choose Kurapati Children’s Hospital for Developmental Care?

At Kurapati Children's Hospital, we are dedicated to your child’s overall well-being:

Over 1 million children treated, ensuring expertise in pediatric development.
Commitment to high-quality healthcare, with specialized developmental screenings.
24/7 emergency care, providing immediate support when needed.

Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s growth. At Kurapati Children’s Hospital, our expert pediatricians are here to guide parents in ensuring their child’s developmental success.