Definition:

A developmental milestone delay occurs when a child doesn’t reach expected developmental milestones within the typical age range.

Types:

1. Gross Motor Delay (e.g., sitting, walking)

2. Fine Motor Delay (e.g., grasping, writing)

3. Language Delay (e.g., speaking, understanding)

4. Cognitive Delay (e.g., problem-solving, memory)

5. Social-Emotional Delay (e.g., interacting, emotional regulation)

Causes:

1. Premature birth

2. Genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome)

3. Neurological disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy)

4. Sensory processing issues

5. Environmental factors (e.g., neglect, trauma)

Signs:

1. Missing milestones (e.g., no crawling by 12 months)

2. Regression or loss of skills

3. Delayed response to sounds or voices

4. Difficulty with problem-solving or learning

5. Social withdrawal or avoidance

Diagnosis:

1. Developmental screening

2. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation

3. Observation and assessment tools (e.g., Denver II)

Interventions:

1. Occupational Therapy (OT)

2. Physical Therapy (PT)

3. Speech Therapy

4. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

5. Parent-child interaction therapy

Om Sai Child Development Center’s Approach:

1. Multidisciplinary team (Pediatrics, OT, PT, Speech)

2. Comprehensive assessment and diagnosis

3. Individualized treatment plans

4. Family-centered care and education

5. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments

Strategies for Parents/Caregivers:

1. Encourage play and exploration

2. Provide sensory experiences

3. Practice language and communication

4. Model social skills and interactions

5. Stay informed and connected

Resources:

1. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

3. World Health Organization (WHO)

Developmental Milestones:

Infancy (0-12 months)

1. Smiling (2 months)

2. Rolling over (4-6 months)

3. Sitting up (6-7 months)

4. Crawling (7-10 months)

5. Standing (9-12 months)

Toddlerhood (1-3 years)

1. Walking (12-14 months)

2. Pointing (12-18 months)

3. Saying first words (12-18 months)

4. Imitating gestures (12-18 months)

5. Playing with toys (12-24 months)

Early Childhood (4-6 years)

1. Drawing simple shapes (3-4 years)

2. Using simple sentences (3-4 years)

3. Showing interest in reading (4-5 years)

4. Cooperating with others (4-5 years)

5. Demonstrating empathy (5-6 years) Note: Every child develops at their own pace. If concerned about your child’s development, consult your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare professional.