“Trust your gut. It knows more than you think.”

Every parent worries about their child’s development at some point. But when those worries don’t go away, it’s important to know the next steps to take. If you’ve noticed signs of a developmental delay, it’s natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed. The good news is, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

👣 Here’s a Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Follow:

1. Document Your Observations:
   Before jumping into any decision-making, spend some time tracking your child’s behaviors. Record what you observe—anything from delayed speech to challenges in playing with peers. This data will be valuable when discussing your concerns with a professional.
2. Talk to Your Pediatrician:
   Once you’ve gathered some observations, it’s time to have an open conversation with your pediatrician. Share your concerns, and request a developmental screening. These screenings help identify areas where your child may need support. Your pediatrician might refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
3. Seek a Multidisciplinary Evaluation:
   Depending on your child’s needs, you may be referred to specialists such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, or special education professionals. Alpine First Step CDC offers a holistic evaluation approach that includes therapists who collaborate to create a personalized plan for your child.
4. Start Early Intervention Programs:
   Research consistently shows that early intervention improves outcomes in children with developmental delays. Programs like speech therapy, occupational therapy (OT), and special education services can help address delays early and equip your child with the skills they need to thrive.

Tip: The earlier you begin therapy, the better. Research shows that children who begin therapy before age 5 often show significant improvements in language, motor skills, and social interactions (Journal of Early Intervention).

At Alpine First Step CDC, we are here to help guide you through the process, offering personalized therapy plans tailored to each child’s unique needs. Don’t wait—early intervention sets the stage for lifelong success.

“Sometimes it’s not about worrying—it’s about watching.”

As parents, we all eagerly anticipate our child’s milestones—first smiles, first steps, and first words. But what if those milestones don’t come when expected? Understanding developmental delays can be overwhelming, but awareness is key.

Developmental delays are more common than you might think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 6 children aged 3–17 years have some form of developmental disability, from speech and language delays to motor, social, and cognitive challenges.

🔍 Key Early Signs to Watch for :

• Speech & Language Delays:
  • Not babbling by 12 months
  • Not using single words by 18 months
  • Limited vocabulary by 2 years, or trouble forming sentences by age 3
  • Difficulty following simple directions
• Motor Skills Delays:
  • Trouble holding or manipulating objects
  • Difficulty crawling or walking by 18 months
  • Unsteady walking or difficulty climbing stairs after 2 years
• Social/Emotional Delays:
  • Avoids eye contact or does not respond to their name
  • Limited interest in social play or interaction
  • Difficulty expressing emotions appropriately
• Cognitive Delays:
  • Difficulty with problem-solving tasks or following instructions
  • Limited or no pretend play
  • Challenges in understanding cause and effect

🚨 Why Early Detection Matters:

Early intervention is the most effective way to address developmental delays. Studies show that the earlier children receive support, the better their chances of improving their skills in areas such as speech, motor coordination, and social interactions.

🎯 What Parents Can Do:

If you notice any of these early signs, don’t wait. Talk to your pediatrician about developmental screening. Many pediatricians conduct these screenings at regular check-ups, typically at 9, 18, and 30 months.

At Alpine First Step CDC, we help parents identify these early signs and offer programs designed to give children the best possible support at every stage of their development. Early awareness can set the stage for lifelong success.