Developmental Delay

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Developmental Delay

Information taken from American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA)

WHAT IS A DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY?

Developmental delay refers to a child who is not achieving milestones that are within the appropriate age range.  A child may have a developmental delay in one or more of the following areas:

  • Gross motor: Using large groups of muscles to sit, stand, walk, crawl, run, change positions, etc. A physical therapist would work on gross motor skills
  • Fine motor: Using hands and fingers to draw, write, eat, play, etc.  An occupational therapist would work on fine motor skills.
  • Speech and language: Speaking, using body language and gestures, and communicating.  A speech therapist would work on speech and language skills and any feeding concerns.
  • Cognition: Thinking skills including learning, problem-solving, understanding, reasoning, and remembering.  A speech therapist and developmental therapist would work on these areas. 
  • Social and emotional development: Interacting with others and having a relationship with family, friends, and teachers.  Understanding and responding to the feelings of others.  A speech therapist, psychologist, and professional counselor may work on social and emotional development. 

Other professionals involved with treating a child may include an audiologist, nutritionist, education specialist, and/or neuropsychologist. 

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY?

If your child is not meeting age appropriate milestones then you should have your child evaluated.  Contact a medical professional today if you have any concerns or questions about your child’s development.  A full evaluation completed by a professional is needed to determine if your child has a delay.  Click on the links below for more information regarding speech and language milestones.     

WHAT CAUSES A DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY?

The cause of developmental delay is unknown; however, genetic factors (i.e., Down Syndrome) and complications during pregnancy and birth may increase the risk for developmental delay.  Environmental factors; such as, exposure to toxins (i.e., drugs and alcohol), infections, prematurity, severe poverty, and malnutrition may also increase the risk.      

OUR APPROACH AT KEY THERAPIES:

At Key Therapies we will develop an individualized treatment plan for your child. Treatment will be provided to improve areas of concern which may include language, speech and/or feeding. We will work closely with other professionals to determine the best therapy plan for your child.    

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