We all know as parents that every child will reach milestones at different points. There are timeframes attached, but every child can be a few weeks to a few months off this timing and still flourish in the world. But if you are experiencing some developmental delays with your child, you may be feeling a little confused on what steps to take next.
Understanding Development
Fully understanding your child’s developmental delay is going to be key to helping them out in the long run. If you are feeling like your child is not picking up on some key items while growing, make sure you are following up with your child’s pediatrician first and foremost. Having your child checked out by a doctor can help determine if there is a delay, or if they may be taking just a little longer than usual.
There are different timeframes for when a child may be taking a little longer to learn or break a milestone, such as walking, as opposed to having an actual developmental delay. Speaking with their pediatrician can help you determine where your child lays and if there is anything you can do to help them along.
When There is a Delay
If after that certain timeframe they are still not reaching that milestone, then it is time to do some research about that specific delay. If it is something like not learning to walk, then you can look up some resources on things to try to help your child, and how to prepare yourself for the emotional side of things. We all want what’s best for our kids, and setting our own expectations is just as important as helping them reach their own milestones.
Helping Your Child
If you bring on a development coach to help your child, it is important to keep them in the loop about any and all progress seen, or any declines as well. They will be able to do their best to help your child only if they know everything that is going on in their lives. You can also help their development along with different areas of physical or emotional support. Using music or pictures can sometimes help with learning delays, as they may need more physical forms to help them remember key items. Incorporating more play or physical therapy can help them with any physical delays as well. Being able to stretch and see what their body can or cannot do can help a child learn to take that next step in their learning journey.
Katie Kyzivat