EarlyStart developmental Delays in Young Children

CEBU, Philippines - As you’ve seen in the previous articles in this section, a child’s growth is more than just physical. They grow, develop, and learn in multiple ways from the time they are in the womb.

There are markers of development that parents can watch out for, called ‘developmental milestones’. These include things like smiling for the first time, waving “bye-bye”, and babbling. A comprehensive list of milestones is available on www.cdc.gov/actearly.

What is a developmental delay?

A developmental delay happens when your child does not reach these milestones at the same time as other children of the same age. Some delays are permanent (i.e., known as a disability) and some, with proper intervention, will go away and the child will be able to catch-up up with his or her peers.

If you notice that your child is not developing typically, you should consult your child’s teacher or pediatrician. They will have the expertise and experience to tell you whether this “delay” is still within the normal range or if it warrants a closer look. Sometimes, you just have a feeling something is not right. Listen to your gut and consult an expert.

Most of the time developmental problems are not something your child will grow out of on his or her own. They will need your support and the help of an expert for them to reach their potential. It is important to note that the sooner a child receives the necessary intervention (e.g. surgery, speech, physical or occupational therapy) the more successful it is likely to be.

What is developmental screening?

There are many different types of evaluations to determine if your child is not functioning at a normal level. Standardized tests are the most common way to find out if a child has a developmental delay. The tests cover areas including:

Communication – Is your baby expressing wants and needs? Can you understand what your baby is trying to ask you?

Social/Emotional – Does your baby interact with you or others? Does your baby act appropriately in social situations? Can he or she calm down after being upset?

Physical/Motor development – Is your baby trying to sit up, crawl, hold objects in his or her hands?

Self-help skills – Is your toddler attempting to feed, toilet, or dress himself or herself?

Cognitive Readiness Skills – Does your child use problem-solving skills? Can he or she identify numbers or letters?

What to expect from an evaluation:

An interview with you about what you've observed. Try to note down what you have observed so you can provide the doctor with as much information as possible. Be honest.

A review of your child’s medical history. It will be helpful to bring as much information as you have.

Standardized testing to see if your child is functioning at the same levels as the typical child.

What happens if my child has a developmental delay or developmental disability?

Although it is scary and sometimes hard to accept, it is important to focus on what you can do for your child. Remember that the quicker you provide your child with the necessary support, the better your child’s chances of living up to his/her potential. Ask your pediatrician or preschool teacher to refer you to experts who can help your child. There are more and more people and organizations in Cebu that work with children with certain delays or disabilities.

Since there are still social stigmas and labels attached to children with these delays, it is important for parents and families to get support as well. Educate yourself and those around you about your child’s situation. Find a support group so you can share your feelings and fears with people who are going through the same process. Oftentimes the same organizations that have treatment services will have support to parents and the whole family.

Source: www.cdc.gov/actearly, www.mychildwithoutlimits.org

The FREEMAN and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. is running weekly features on Early Childhood Care and Development to emphasize the importance of Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and to increase public support for ECCD. (FREEMAN)