When to Suspect Abnormal Development in a Child: A Guide for Parents

When to Suspect Abnormal Development in a Child: A Guide for Parents

As a parent, watching your child grow and reach developmental milestones is an exciting journey. However, it is natural to wonder if your child is developing at the right pace. While every child grows at their own rate, certain delays or differences in development may indicate the need for further evaluation. Early detection of developmental concerns can make a significant difference in a child’s long-term well-being.

Understanding developmental milestones

Development occurs across several key areas:

• Gross motor skills (e.g., rolling over, sitting, walking)
• Fine motor skills (e.g., grasping objects, using a spoon, drawing)
• Speech and language (e.g., babbling, forming words, understanding commands)
• Social and emotional development (e.g., smiling, making eye contact, playing with others)
• Cognitive development (e.g., problem-solving, recognizing objects, following instructions)

Most children reach developmental milestones within a specific age range. However, significant delays or missing milestones may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.

Signs of possible developmental delay

Below are some red flags parents should be aware of at different stages of early childhood:

0-6 Months:

• Does not respond to loud sounds or does not turn towards voices
• Poor head control by 3 months
• Lack of social smile by 2 months
• Does not reach for objects by 4-5 months
• Stiff or floppy movements

6-12 Months:

• Does not sit without support by 9 months
• Does not babble or attempt to imitate sounds
• Does not show interest in familiar faces
• Poor eye contact or lack of engagement
• Difficulty bringing hands to the mouth

12-24 Months:

• Does not walk by 18 months
• No single words by 16 months
• Does not point or wave by 12 months
• Shows no interest in playing with others
• Repetitive movements (e.g., hand flapping, rocking)

2-3 Years:

• Cannot form two-word sentences by 2 years
• Has difficulty understanding simple instructions
• Struggles with coordination and balance
• Avoids eye contact or social interactions
• Displays extreme sensitivity to textures, sounds, or lights

3-5 Years:

• Difficulty in playing with peers or sharing
• Struggles with toilet training beyond the expected age
• Trouble speaking in clear sentences
• Persistent difficulty in using hands for small tasks (e.g., holding a crayon, buttoning clothes)
• Inability to engage in pretend play

What to do if you notice a delay

If you observe one or more of these signs, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician or a child development specialist. Early intervention is key in addressing developmental delays. Your doctor may recommend:

• Hearing and vision screenings to rule out sensory issues
• Developmental assessments by a pediatric neurologist or therapist
• Speech therapy, occupational therapy, or physiotherapy based on the child’s needs
• Parental guidance and early intervention programs to support the child’s development

Trust Your Parental Instincts

Parents know their children best. If you feel something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Many developmental delays can be addressed effectively with early support, ensuring your child has the best possible chance to thrive.

If you have concerns, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician to discuss your child’s development. Early awareness and action can make a lifetime of difference!

[Doctor Rajeev Seth is the best pediatrician in Delhi, Gurgaon / Gurugram & Noida considering factors such as their qualifications, experience, location, availability, and approach to care. Recommended from friends or family and try an initial consultation can help in making the right choice]