Understanding Developmental Delay: Signs and Symptoms

Children go through many developmental phases, from birth until the end of adolescence. There are milestones that your newborn, toddler, or teenager should reach to ensure they have a healthy developmental track. Luckily, the team at Johns Creek Pediatrics in Suwanee and Cumming, GA, has experience working with children of all ages who may have autism or some form of developmental delay.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Developmental Delays?

As a parent, you are not alone if your child is experiencing some type of delay. This situation affects about one in six American children, or 17 percent, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children should meet certain milestones at various ages. You expect to hear your baby’s first words at around 12 months, which may often be “mama” or “dada.” By the time a child is two years old, they should have a vocabulary of about 50 words and the ability to follow commands. Therefore, if they're completely nonverbal at this age, that is a sign of a speech delay.

They should also begin displaying motor skills such as rolling over, pulling themselves up to stand, and taking their first steps. It is alarming if your child has not begun to smile or acknowledge you by making eye contact or reaching for you. Developmental delays might also manifest themselves through a lack of interest in playing or interacting with peers and family members.

Such delays may be caused by underlying conditions, such as autism. A child could have suffered a lack of oxygen or other injury during pregnancy or birth. Abuse by a parent or caretaker might lead to shaken baby syndrome, which can result in trauma to the brain. Genes also affect a child's development.

What Are Some Treatment Options?

If you suspect a developmental delay in Suwanee or Cumming, GA, your team of doctors will perform regular screenings to assess milestones, conduct questionnaires, and track development over time. Doctors observe the child's behavior and responses to questions. Genetic testing and knowledge of family history also help.

Medical professionals work with other health providers, caretakers, and school officials to diagnose and manage these developmental concerns. Your doctor at Johns Creek Pediatrics will start with testing for a proper diagnosis or refer you to specialists when more intensive treatment is needed.

The team at Johns Creek Pediatrics has been working with families dealing with developmental delays in Suwanee and Cumming, GA, for years. Therefore, your child will be in good hands throughout their developmental journey. Call us at (770) 814-1160 to ensure your child is reaching their milestones and can receive the appropriate intervention when needed.