DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENING: I Am Not Sure My Child Is Growing As He/She Should

Monitoring how your child is developing can be confusing, even for the most well informed parent. Children learn and develop rapidly as they grow, but not every child does so at the same pace. You may think your child should begin to walk at 12 months, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirms that by the end of 18 months your child should be cruising on his/her own. If you believe that your child is not completing simple activities that other children his/her age are doing, then it might be a sign of a more serious condition. It is never wrong to inform yourself and take action if you are concerned! Delaware provides a free tool to help you measure the success of your baby as he/she ages. The developmental milestone fact sheet will help you keep track of your child’s growth through different stages of life.  

Act early if you have concerns. DO NOT WAIT. If caught early, help services can greatly improve your child’s developmental delay. Talk to your child’s physician during the next wellness visit. Take notes prior to your arrival so that you are able to share areas of concern.  Delawareans can dial 2-1-1 for Help Me Grow to find a local provider to screen their babies. Some physician practices, child care centers and schools in the community have the capability to complete a developmental screen. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that screenings occur at 9, 18, 24, 30 months and every year thereafter. Acting early is key to keeping your child on a successful path. Early intervention enhances a healthy life and supports school readiness in a child.

As a parent, you can support healthy development and learning every stage of your child’s development. The CDC offers positive parenting tips to reduce developmental delays so that your baby can thrive!