A child’s growth from birth is expected to follow a natural, upward developmental curve without health problems. Although there are individual differences in growth rates among children—even between twins—mothers should avoid comparing their child’s growth to that of others. These differences are influenced by several factors, most importantly genetics.
Despite normal variations in growth, it is important for a mother to know when to worry if signs of delayed development appear. To reassure mothers about their child’s health and safety, Sayidaty & Your Child spoke with pediatric consultant Dr. Layal Abdullah, who explained the situations in which developmental delay may be a concern—from birth through different stages of childhood, especially during the first year of life.
What Is Developmental Delay in Children?
A child may be described as having delayed or insufficient growth if there is a noticeable delay in reaching expected, sequential developmental milestones according to standard growth charts for children of the same age. Developmental delay may affect one or multiple areas, such as motor skills, sensory abilities, or language skills, and may require medical intervention and special care.
A child may be considered developmentally delayed if they are unable to acquire fine motor skills, such as grasping or holding objects. The presence of multiple concerning symptoms together warrants immediate medical consultation to identify the causes and determine appropriate treatment.
Possible causes of delayed growth include complications from premature birth, genetic conditions, inherited disorders affecting senses such as hearing or vision, or deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals—either during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or later due to inadequate complementary feeding and poor nutrition.
Signs of Developmental Delay at Two Months
At two months of age, a child may be considered delayed if they do not respond to loud sounds, do not show visual tracking (moving their head to follow moving objects), or are unable to lift their head when placed on their tummy. These signs may indicate issues related to the central nervous system and should not be ignored.
Signs of Developmental Delay at Four Months
At four months, concern arises if the baby does not track moving objects, does not smile in response to others, or fails to engage socially. A developmentally delayed infant at this age may also not make early vocal sounds, such as cooing, may not move their eyes in all directions, or may be unable to hold their head steadily. Such delays are often linked to slower brain development.
Signs of Developmental Delay at Six Months
By six months, a baby may be developmentally delayed if they do not attempt to grasp toys, bring objects to their mouth, or show emotional responses to people around them. Difficulty rolling over in different directions is also concerning. Parents should be particularly worried if the baby appears unusually stiff or floppy during bathing, does not laugh, scream, or make spontaneous sounds.
Signs of Developmental Delay at Nine Months
At nine months, delayed development may be suspected if the baby cannot bear light weight on their legs when supported, cannot sit even with assistance, or has poor head control. Other warning signs include lack of babbling sounds such as “ma,” “da,” or “ta,” not responding to their name, not transferring toys from one hand to the other, not following pointing gestures, and not showing joy when seeing familiar people.
Signs of Developmental Delay at One Year
At one year of age, a child may be considered delayed if they cannot crawl, sit independently, or stand with support. Weak legs, lack of meaningful gestures (such as waving or nodding), inability to say simple syllables like “ma” or “ba,” and failure to point at desired objects (such as a cup of water) are also concerning signs. Delayed teething and lack of cognitive development—such as not searching for lost objects—are additional indicators that require medical follow-up.
General Signs of Developmental Delay Up to Two Years
A child is considered delayed if they reach ten months of age and are still unable to sit independently.
Delayed teething may be suspected if no teeth appear by thirteen months.
Crawling is not essential for all children; some may skip it and still develop normally if they can sit independently and stand with support.
A child may be considered delayed in speech if, by the age of two, they cannot say any meaningful words, do not understand instructions, and cannot express basic needs through words or gestures.
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