Know the Difference Between a Child’s Immaturity and Developmental Delay
When it comes to growing up, some kids need a little longer. However, it can be difficult for a child to grow up more slowly than their peers , especially after they start school. If all of their friends move on to other activities and interests as their own school work becomes more difficult, it can make them feel lonely and alone, and friends tease them for still doing “childish” things.
If your child has a difficult time growing up and seems to be developing more slowly than their peers, there are ways you can help.
Understand that children develop at different rates.
A child’s development is never constant. While there are milestones such as learning to walk, speaking, reading, and developing the discipline for completing school assignments, each child reaches them at slightly different times.
“We imagine that children move at the same pace in all areas of development. For some children it is not so “, – said Rebecca Parlakyan , senior director of the nonprofit organization” From zero to three “ engaged in preschool education. “We can see children who have excellent language skills, but a little slower in terms of physical skills. Or you can do the opposite when the child walks, runs and climbs, but does not talk much. Even at a very young age, we have some preferences for our strengths. “
Know the milestones of your development
Knowing what to expect at different stages of a child’s life is critical in determining what can be delayed, so it is important to have an idea of when your child will develop which skills. In the early years, this includes learning to walk and talk, and after a while, your child will begin to develop the ability to regulate his emotions.
“Knowing what to expect gives you some idea of when to ask your pediatrician or health care provider,” Parlakian said. This is why it is also important to adhere to a healthy baby’s visitation schedule as it is designed to track the overall development of the baby.
A helpful resource is ” Learn the Signs” from the CDC . Act early. ”, Which is a collection of tools and resources that includes information on milestones from birth to age five. It also includes the Milestone Tracker app, which helps you track your child’s development from two months to five years old, which includes illustrated checklists, tips to stimulate your child’s development, and information on what to do if you have a problem. … You can also download a PDF with a milestone checklist to help you keep track.
Try to identify the root cause
If your child is struggling in one area of their life, it is important to try to determine what is causing it. Sometimes the root cause can be unexpected or counterintuitive – for example, if your child has regular breakdowns at school, he or she may not understand the instructions, in which case it is normal to get upset.
From Parlakian’s own experience, working in kindergarten, she saw a child crying continuously, but the teachers eventually realized that fluorescent lamps cause discomfort. As soon as they left, the crying stopped. “You really need to think about all the possibilities,” Parlakian said.
When in doubt, know where to go for help.
If your child is struggling and you feel like they need more help than you can offer, there are a number of resources available. The first resource is your pediatrician, who can offer you recommendations and also refer you to the right specialist.
For children under the age of three, parents can also apply for an early intervention program in their area. Early Intervention is a federally funded program available in all states, available to infants and young children with developmental delays and disabilities at no cost or at a reduced cost. Parents do not need a referral to a pediatrician to examine their child.
If you are still concerned, the next step is to call your local Early Intervention office and tell them, “I have concerns about my child’s development and would like my child to be screened to see if they are eligible for services. early intervention. “
For children ages three and older, this will apply to special education services, which means you will need to call your local public primary school and tell them, “I have concerns about my child’s development and I would like my the child was assessed at school. system of services for preschool special education “.
Create a supportive environment for them
Growing up is hard. Some children will struggle a little harder than others, but for many of them they will get there sooner or later. And as long as a parent, it is important to try to support your child as best you can. Sometimes you just need to talk to them or find a more supportive environment in which they can develop at the pace they want without feeling awkward or ashamed. Sometimes kids just need to feel supported. There is nothing immature about this.