Navigating Developmental Milestones: Supporting Your Child’s Unique Journey
Every child follows a distinct developmental path, reaching milestones at their own pace. Parents often have concerns about when their child should achieve these milestones. It’s important to educate yourself about these milestones and the options for treatment and intervention in case of any developmental disorders. Early identification and intervention are crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes.
Common developmental disorders include mental retardation, cerebral palsy, and autism spectrum disorders. This article provides an overview of developmental milestones from birth to 3 years of age. Remember that there’s a wide range of what’s considered normal, and parents needn’t worry unless they notice specific red flags. If you’re concerned, you can have your child screened at a ReLiva Physiotherapy clinic.
1 Month Infant: Milestones
Your responsibilities include feeding, diaper changes, soothing, and responding to your baby’s cues. At this stage, your baby starts noticing your voice, face, and touch. They can focus on objects within 8-12 inches, track black and white patterns, and respond to familiar sounds.
3 Months Infant: Milestones
Your baby’s smiles and imitations of your expressions bring joy. They can lift their head and chest while on their stomach, grasp objects, and follow moving objects with their eyes. They recognize you from a distance and may react to their name being called.
4 to 7 Months: Milestones
Your baby becomes more engaged with the world. They smile, laugh, babble, and have mini-conversations with you. They can roll over, sit without help, and bounce on their legs while supported. Your baby uses a raking grasp to explore objects and shows more sensitivity to your tone of voice.
8 – 12 Months: Milestones
Your baby becomes an explorer. They crawl, sit on their own, pull up to stand, and may take their first steps. They start saying simple words and using gestures to communicate. Separation anxiety is common during this period.
13 – 24 Months (Toddler): Milestones
Your toddler becomes more mobile, climbing stairs, standing on tiptoes, and maybe even running. They communicate using single words, then short phrases and sentences. They can follow two-step directions and engage in pretend play.
25 to 36 Months (2 to 3 years): Milestones
Your preschooler’s imagination blossoms with make-believe play. Speech becomes clearer, and physical skills improve, such as walking up stairs, jumping, and pedaling a tricycle.
Role of Physiotherapy:
ReLiva Physiotherapy and Rehab offers comprehensive assessment, evaluation, and treatment for developmental delays. Skilled therapists create personalized plans to help children achieve their milestones, with the goal of fostering independence and functional skills. Parents are guided in administering home exercises and progress is regularly reviewed and adjusted.