Consult your pediatrician if milestones seem delayed

Schedule a visit with your pediatrician if your baby is not meeting expected milestones or if you notice regression in skills they previously had. Early identification of developmental delays leads to earlier intervention, which significantly improves long-term outcomes.

When to Act

• By 4 months: Not tracking objects with eyes, not bringing hands to mouth, does not respond to loud sounds
• By 6 months: Not reaching for objects, does not respond to own name, shows no affection toward caregivers
• By 9 months: Not sitting with support, not babbling, does not recognize familiar people
• By 12 months: Not pulling to stand, not pointing or gesturing, has lost skills they once had

Why It Works

The AAP recommends standardized developmental screening at 9, 18, and 30 months. However, if you have concerns before a scheduled screening, do not wait. Pediatricians can administer validated screening tools such as the ASQ (Ages and Stages Questionnaire) at any visit. Early referral to specialists or early intervention programs (available in every U.S. state through IDEA Part C) can begin as early as a few months of age.

Tips

• Trust your instincts; parents notice delays before screening tools catch them in many cases
• Early intervention services are typically free or low cost through state programs
• A single missed milestone is usually not cause for alarm, but a pattern of delays across multiple areas warrants evaluation