As a parent, it's natural to care about your child's development. Every child is unique and will develop at their own pace. There is a wide range of “typical” in these early years. However, no question is too small. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s development, there are professionals who would be happy to answer your questions. The earlier potential delays are identified, the quicker intervention can happen, and the better the outcomes will be for your child.
So if you have concerns about your child's development, here are a few steps you can take:
- Keep track of your child's development: It can be helpful to keep a record of your child's development, such as milestones reached and any potential delays or concerns. You can do this in the Earlybird app. This will help you to identify any potential issues so you are able to discuss them with your child's healthcare provider.
- Engage in activities that support your child's development: There are many simple activities you can do at home to support your child's development. Check out the activities on the Earlybird App that are connected to the area you have concerns about.
- Talk to your child's healthcare provider: Your child's healthcare provider is an excellent resource for information and guidance on your child's development. They can assess your child's overall development, answer any questions you may have, and provide recommendations for next steps. They can also connect you to local professionals in your area for further evaluation and interventions.
- Seek additional support: If you have concerns about your child's development, it may be helpful to seek additional support from a professional. This can include a play therapist (social-emotional concerns), a speech and language pathologist (talking and language concerns), a physical therapist (gross motor concerns), or an occupational therapist (daily functional motor skills concerns), depending on your child's specific needs.
Remember, it's important to trust your instincts and to address any concerns you have about your child's development as soon as possible. Early intervention can make a big difference in your child's overall development and well-being.