Developmental Delays

Developmental delays occur when children have not reached developmental milestones by the expected time period.

For example, if the normal range for learning to walk is between 9 and 15 months, and a 20-month-old child has not begun walking, this would be considered a developmental delay. Developmental delays can occur in any or all five areas of development:

Cognitive
Social and Emotional
Speech and Language
Fine Motor Skill
Gross Motor Skill

Developmental delays may be associated with, but are not limited to, sensory-motor deficits, chromosomal disorders, attention deficits, learning disabilities, pervasive developmental disorder and autism.

Diagnosing Developmental Delays

Diagnosis of developmental delays is obtained through an evaluation process which may include some of the following:

Standardized Developmental Test
Observational Assessments
Parent Interview
Developmental Inventory
Behavioral Checklist

Parents who suspect their child has a developmental delay should consult with their pediatrician to determine how pediatric therapies can help.

Treating Developmental Delays

Treatment for developmental delays can include:

Therapies that address speech-language development, sensory-motor processing (including occupational therapy), vision therapy, auditory training and perceptual-motor therapy
Activities that encourage positive social-emotional relationships, such as communication therapies, floor time, and family therapy

Kid’s Creek Therapy has been treating children with developmental delays since we opened in 2004. When treating developmental delays, Kid’s Creek Therapy uses a multidisciplinary approach involving speech, occupational, and physical therapies, customized for each child.

If you would like to speak with our therapists about treatment possibilities for developmental delays, please contact us for a free consultation.

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