Developmental Delay: A
developmental delay is any significant lag in a child's physical, cognitive,
behavioral, emotional, or social development, in comparison with norms.
The term developmental delay refers
to when a child does not achieve developmental milestones within the normal age
range.
Developmental delay is usually initially
noticed by parents or health visitors, and will then need to be assessed in
order to ascertain which milestones they are missing. The child may only be delayed
in one area of development, such as gross or fine motor, or in more than one.
Developmental screening can be done by a
trained healthcare professional, in which they will play with the child to see
how they speak, move, and respond. If this indicates a delay, the child should
then be assessed with a developmental evaluation, done by a highly trained
professional such as a developmental psychologist or paediatrician, or a
paediatric neurologist.
The specific management of children with global
developmental delay will depend on their individual needs and underlying
diagnosis. Early intervention is essential to support the child to reach their
full potential. Specialists involved in the management of GDD in children
includes:
· Speech
therapists
·
Physical
therapists
·
Occupational
therapists
·
Hearing
specialists
·
Developmental
paediatricians
·
Neurologists
·
Providers
of Early Intervention Services (depending on location)
As well as involving professionals, parents can
support the development of their child by playing with them, reading with them,
showing them how to do tasks, and supporting them to participate in activities
of daily living such as washing, dressing, and eating.
Cause of Developmental Delay:
The primary cause for developmental delays in
school-aged children is genetic abnormalities. For example, phenylketonuria
(PKU) is a single-gene disorder also referred to as an “inborn error of
metabolism.”
Some of the most common known
causes of intellectual disability include fetal alcohol syndrome;
genetic and chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome and
fragile X syndrome; and certain infections during pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms
of Developmental Delay
Some of
the most common symptoms can include: Learning and developing
more slowly than other children same age. Rolling over, sitting up, crawling,
or walking much later than developmentally appropriate. Difficulty
communicating or socializing with others.
If you suspect your child is developmentally delayed
Remember that children develop at different rates.
However, if you think your child is developmentally delayed, talk to your
doctor.
If your school-age child is diagnosed with
developmental delay, you may be eligible for special services. Specialized
services vary according to need and location.
Check with your physician and your school district
to find out what services are available. Specialized education, especially when
started early, can help your child progress and achieve more in school.
Treatments for developmental delays vary according
to the specific delay. Some treatments include physical therapy for help in
motor skill delays, and behavioral and
educational therapy for help with ASD and other delays.
Any support or help needed, feel free to write us:
For
Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychological problems, Approach:
Sailaja Pisapati Mental Health Center [SPMHC]
Saikrupa Nilayam, Nagender Nagar
Colony, Habsiguda X Roads,
Landmark: Line beside Bharat Petrol
Bunk, Hyderabad.
Our Branch:
C/o. Pallavi Aware Intrnational School, Saroornagar Branch
Contact: 9550950732/040-48510690.
Website: www.spmhc.com .
