Watching for developmental milestones in your child’s growth can be exciting, but it can also be a source of concern. Recognizing developmental red flags in children is crucial for early intervention, and early intervention can make a huge difference in helping a child manage developmental challenges. Learn some common milestones, behaviors to watch out for, and when you should consult a pediatrician or therapist.
Milestones From 4–6 Months to 1 Year
In the first year of life, children go through significant growth and development, both physically and cognitively. They’re little sensory sponges and explore touch, taste, sounds, and smells. During this time, you should keep an eye on the following milestones:
- Smiling, cooing, and babbling
- Rolling over and sitting up without support
- Grabbing and reaching for objects
- Displaying curiosity and exploring their environment
A few developmental red flags include the following:
- Lack of response to sounds or voices
- Difficulty lifting their head or rolling over
- Not making eye contact or showing interest in faces
- Not pointing or gesturing, nodding, or saying simple words like “Mama” and “Dada”
- Pointing instead of speaking
Milestones From 1–3 Years
During these early toddler years, kids develop pivotal language, social, and motor skills. Here are some key milestones for this age range:
- Walking independently, running, and climbing
- Using two-word sentences and understanding simple instructions
- Expressing emotions and showing affection
- Initiating and participating in play with others
Red flags for development from ages 1 to 3 include the following:
- Difficulty using or understanding language
- Not walking or struggling with balance and coordination
- Struggling with eye contact or seeming uninterested in social interaction
Milestones From 3–5 Years
In preschool years, children continue to hone their intellectual, verbal, and social/emotional skills. Look out for these milestones:
- Using longer sentences and understanding more complex instructions
- Enjoying imaginative play and making friends
- Demonstrating independence
Red flags in years 3 to 5:
- Difficulty with speech or communication
- Struggling with social interaction or demonstrating aggressive behavior
- Persistent thumb sucking
When To Consult a Pediatrician
Children develop at their own pace, so missing a milestone by a few weeks or even months may not be a cause for concern. Your pediatrician will check developmental markers on each routine visit. However, recognizing developmental red flags in children often happens when parents notice that something seems off.
If you notice red flags, such as jaw misalignment caused by thumb sucking, don’t hesitate to talk to your pediatrician about early intervention options. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and set your child up for success in life.
