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Watching your child take their first steps, say a new word, or write their name are exciting events for families! From the time children are born, they are learning about their bodies and the world around them. Talking to your baby, playing, and responding to their needs are all important experiences. These early and positive experiences promote your child’s learning by building connections in their brain. These connections help form the foundation for the development of lifelong skills like problem-solving, communication, self-control, and relationships.
The skills children develop are referred to as developmental milestones. A developmental milestone is a skill learned within a specific time frame. There is a normal and predictable range in which a child will reach each milestone, and each child will reach these milestones at their own pace. For example, one child may begin to walk as early as 10 months while another child may not walk until 14 months. Both children have reached the same milestone within the expected age range of 10-16 months. There are five main areas of growth and development to monitor: social/emotional, speech/language, cognitive (thinking, problem-solving) fine motor (small muscles), and gross motor (large muscles).
One way to track your child’s development is by using a checklist from the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) Click https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html or for more convenience download their milestone tracker app https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones-app.html
Another way to monitor your child’s development is by completing a free online developmental screening tool, the Ages and Stages Questionnaire http://www.easterseals.com/mtffc/
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s development, it is important to visit with your child’s doctor or pediatrician. Parents can also have their child’s development screened at no direct cost through their county’s Infant-Toddler Services or tiny-k program. Click Here to find the program serving your area. If your child is over three years of age, you will need to contact your local school district for developmental screening information.
Monitoring your child’s development will give you information on what skills are expected for your child’s age. If your child’s skills are delayed, an early intervention program will provide you with the services and support needed to help your child reach his or her potential. By seeking information and support early, you will be able to provide your child with more effective treatment and success.
To learn about everyday fun activities you can do to support your child’s learning and development, visit the Vroom website https://www.vroom.org/ or download their free app to receive tips by text.
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