Condition : Developmental delay

Some children take longer than others to learn to talk, move, or play. Early help can make a big difference.

Developmental delay is when a child takes longer to reach milestones in at least two major areas of development. These areas are:

• talking
• moving
• socialising (spending time with people)
• learning

Developmental delay is also known as 'global developmental delay’ (GDD).  

With support or therapy, your child may be able to catch up. If they still have challenges, they may have a learning disability and need lifelong support.

Every child is different and will develop at their own pace. 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.

Things to watch out for:

• picking about small objects (about 4 months)
• enjoys looking in a mirror (about 6 months)
• says “dada” or “mama” with meaning (about 1 year)
• points to things they want (about 14 months)
• feeds themselves (about 18 months)
• runs and scribbles in circles (about 2 years)

Please speak to a healthcare professional for more information about milestones. This might be your child’s health visitor, GP, or a specialist like a speech and language therapist.

Developmental delay can have many causes. It may be due to how a child’s brain grows, a genetic condition, or problems at birth. It may appear alongside another condition, like autism, Down’s syndrome, or cerebral palsy. 

It is not caused by bad parenting.

Mencap

Advice and information about learning disabilities 

• Visit the Mencap website

Scope UK

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

• Visit the Scope website