Every Child Develops Differently: Know the Milestones

The First 5 Years- Developmental Screenings

Keeping track of your child’s growth and development is crucial for ensuring they reach their full potential. Developmental disabilities, such as delays in talking, playing, or learning are more common than many people realize. Did you know that 1 in 6 children between the ages of 3 and 17 has a developmental disability? Additionally, 1 in 36 children who are 8 years old are estimated to be on the autism spectrum,  which can affect their behavior, mental, and physical development. 

Early identification of developmental disabilities can make a significant difference. When these issues are detected early, interventions and family support can begin sooner, leading to better outcomes for the child.

Learn the Signs. Act Early. (LTSAE)

The CDC has a valuable program called “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” (LTSAE) that helps parents and caregivers recognize the signs of developmental delays and disabilities. LTSAE provides resources and tools to help you track your child’s development and know when to seek help. These tools will allow you to identify whether your child is meeting important developmental milestones.

Understanding CDC Milestones

CDC milestones are guidelines that outline typical developmental stages for children. These milestones cover talking, moving, learning, playing, and interacting with others. For example, by the age of two, most children can say several single words, point to things when named, and play simple pretend games. By three, they might be able to follow two-step instructions and carry on a simple conversation. These milestones serve as a checklist to help you see if your child is on track.

If your child is not meeting these milestones, it might be a sign of a developmental delay. Recognizing these signs early allows you to seek professional advice and start interventions as soon as possible.

What to Do if You Have Concerns

• Talk to Your Child’s Doctor 

As a parent, you know your child best. If your child is not meeting the milestones for his or her age, or if you think there could be a problem, talk to your child’s pediatrician and share your concerns. Don’t wait. Acting early can make a real difference! 

• Complete a Milestone Checklist for Your Child’s Age 

Use the Milestone Tracker app or a checklist to track your child’s development. Share the checklist or milestone summary with your child’s healthcare provider. Remember that these checklists are not a substitute for standardized, validated developmental screening tools. 

• Ask About a Developmental Screening

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a screening for general development using standardized, validated tools at 9, 18, or 30 months and for autism at 18 and 24 months or whenever a parent or provider has a concern. Ask the pediatrician about your child’s developmental screening.

• Learn About and Take this Online Developmental Screening

The first five years of development lay the foundation for a child’s overall success. Screen the areas of relationships, exploring and learning, communication, playing, and moving. (ASQ-3™ is designed for screening, not diagnosis. It is a quick check for children from birth through age five. If your child is age six or older, please discuss his or her development with your child’s health care provider, your local school district, or your child’s teacher.)

• Ask for a Referral

If you or the doctor thinks there might be a delay, ask the doctor for a referral to a specialist who can do a more in-depth evaluation of your child. Your child could be referred to a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, psychologist, or psychiatrist.

• Get an Evaluation

Unfortunately, you may have to wait weeks or sometimes months before you are able to get an appointment to see a specialist or start intervention services for your child’s developmental problem. In the meantime, find support and information for your family, visit the Utah Family Voices website. To speak with a staff member from Utah Family Voices please call 801.272.1068.

Remember, If you have any concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to seek help. Early action is key to helping your child succeed.

Additional Resources:

Baby Watch Early Intervention
The purpose of the Baby Watch Early Intervention Program (BWEIP) is to enhance early growth and development in infants and toddlers, who have developmental delays or disabilities, by providing individualized support and services to the child and their family.

UPC Early Intervention Resource Page
Free services and support for children ages birth–3 with developmental delays or disabilities in Utah.

CDC
Learn the Signs. Act Early.

UPC Early Intervention Guidebook for Parents
A comprehensive Utah Parent Center resource to help families understand Early Intervention (birth–3)