Condition : Developmental delay

A child has a developmental delay, also known as 'global developmental delay’ or GDD when they take longer than other children to reach milestones in at least two major areas of development. These areas are talking, moving, socialising, and learning.

With support or therapy, your child may be able to catch up with their peers. If they continue to experience challenges, they may have a learning disability and need ongoing support.

Every child is unique and will develop at their own pace, and it’s important to remember that milestones are a guide, not a rule. However, if you’re worried that your child isn’t reaching their milestones it’s important to get support as soon as possible since early diagnosis and support can give them the best possible quality of life.

Example milestones to watch out for include:

• grasping objects (4 months)
• enjoying a mirror (6 months)
• saying “dada” or “mama” with meaning (1 year)
• pointing to things they want (14 months)
• feeding their self (18 months)
• running and making circular scribble (2 years)

Please speak to your child’s health visitor, GP, or other healthcare professional, such as a speech and language therapist, for more information about milestones.

GDD is linked to brain development and can be caused by a large range of factors, such as genetics, birth complications, or the child’s environment. It may appear alongside another condition, like autism, Down’s syndrome, or cerebral palsy.

‘Bad parenting’ is not a cause of developmental delay, and it is also not about effort.

Mencap

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Scope UK

Advice and support for people living with, or parents of children who have, a disability 

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