Identifying Developmental Delays

What is Developmental Delay? 

Childhood milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, vocalizing, and speaking, happen at different times for different children. However, when a child does not reach certain milestones within a particular window of time, they may be diagnosed with a developmental delay. 

A child is identified as having a developmental delay when they lack the motor, social, cognitive, or communicative skills that are expected of them by a certain age. The developmental timeline can vary, sometimes with rapid progress halted by challenges or even followed by regression. 

Causes of Developmental Delays 

Developmental delays can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which can occur before the child is born. Some causes of developmental delay include: 

• Genetics, such as Down Syndrome

• Being born prematurely

• Medical conditions, such as stroke 

• Trauma, such as shaken baby syndrome

• Exposure to toxic substances, such as lead

• Serious infections 

 

Signs and Symptoms of Developmental Delay 

Developmental delays can manifest in a variety of ways and exhibit an array of symptoms that vary between individuals. In some cases, signs can manifest as early as infancy, while others may not become apparent until later in childhood.

• Meeting developmental milestones more slowly than children the same age

• Difficulty socializing with peers

• Having trouble remembering things

• Difficulty regulating the body (ex: using the bathroom or staying calm) 

• Difficulty performing as expected in school

A developmental delay must be diagnosed by a professional, such as a physician or neuropsychologist. An assessment can determine a child’s specific delays and also advise appropriate treatments and therapies. 

 

Addressing Developmental Delays 

There are many therapeutic approaches that are used to address specific areas of concern and assist children in reaching their potential. Some of the most common therapies used to manage developmental delays include:

• Occupational Therapy: This is used to address sensory processing, fine motor skills, and self-help concerns.

• Speech and Language Therapy: This is used to assist children in generalizing expressive and receptive language, pragmatic language, and articulation.

• Counseling: This is used to assist children  in the development of their social and emotional well-being 

• Early Childhood Special Education: This approach uses individualized planning to encourage buildable early developmental skills 

 

The Gillen Brewer School provides an academic-therapeutic approach to special education in NYC

Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, The Gillen Brewer School is proud to provide an academic program with integrated therapies that works with the whole family to give each child the tools they need to excel. 

If your child has been diagnosed with a developmental delay, or you have noticed signs of developmental delay, our program might be right for your child. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child become a more confident, independent, and engaged learner!