Progress Isn't Always Linear
Progress isn’t linear means that progress towards a goal doesn’t always follow a
straight, constantly upward trajectory. It can involve periods of slow progress, plateaus,
and even setbacks before reaching the desired outcome.
As parents, we love watching our little ones learn and grow. From their first smile to their first steps and first words, every new skill is exciting! But sometimes, progress doesn't happen as quickly or as smoothly as we might expect.
The truth is, development isn't always a straight line.
Children grow and learn in many different areas, including communication, movement, thinking, social-emotional development, and everyday skills. And here's something important to remember: These areas don't always develop at the same pace!
Think about how much your child's little brain is working to learn something new! At times, children may be especially focused on practicing and mastering a particular skill. While they're busy working on that exciting new accomplishment, progress in other areas may be less noticeable. That doesn't mean learning has stopped. Their brains are constantly growing, making connections, and building skills in many different ways.
When we think about developmental progress, it's easy to focus on the big milestones. But growth happens in so many smaller ways, too! Try to focus on the journey not the destination. Celebrate the small steps, efforts, and progress your child makes along the way, rather than focusing only on reaching the next milestone. Every new experience, attempt, and accomplishment is an important part of learning and growing!
Maybe your child isn't walking independently yet, but they're beginning to pull themselves up or take a few steps while holding onto furniture. Perhaps they aren't using many words yet, but they're pointing to things they want, making new sounds, or finding new ways to communicate. Sometimes, the changes are so small that they're easy to overlook, especially when you're with your child every day. Taking a moment to notice and celebrate those accomplishments can help you recognize just how much your little one is learning.
And remember, progress isn't a race or a competition. Comparing your child's development to another child's can sometimes make it harder to appreciate their individual journey. Instead, think about where your child was a few weeks or months ago. What can they do now that they couldn't do before? What are they beginning to try? What makes them proud or excited?
Every new attempt, every little discovery, and every growing skill is worth recognizing.
If your child is receiving Early Intervention services, remember that you and your child's team are working together to support their development through everyday activities and routines. Share the little victories you notice along the way, and don't hesitate to bring up any concerns about skills that aren't progressing as expected or skills your child may have lost.
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