When your baby doesn’t meet a milestone “on time,” it’s easy to worry. You may find yourself thinking: Should they be crawling by now? Are they supposed to be saying more words? Am I missing something? These quiet questions are more common than you might think.
We hear them every day, and we welcome them. Parents shouldn’t have to struggle in silence. You shouldn’t have to spend your nights awake, frantically searching online for answers that don’t exactly apply to you. You should be able to get the assistance you need and the help you’re looking for without feeling judged or overwhelmed.
Parenting may feel scary and isolating, but it doesn’t have to. A lot of families have questions when it comes to developmental delays in their children. Posing these questions to people who have the training and knowledge necessary to help can give you peace of mind and connect you to the resources that can help. Most of all, remember that asking for support is a strength, not a sign of failure. Everyone has questions and no one can do it alone.
What Is a Developmental Delay?
A developmental delay is when a child takes longer than expected to develop skills in one or more areas, such as:
- Speech and language
- Motor skills (gross or fine)
- Social and emotional development
- Feeding and self-care abilities.
Every child is unique and grows at their own pace, but some delays may signal a need for additional support. Identifying delays early allows for the introduction of therapies that nurture growth, ease challenges, and support families.
How Do I Know if My Baby’s Delay Is Something to Be Concerned About?
This is one of the hardest questions for parents because no one wants to overreact, but no one wants to wait too long either.
Some general signs that may warrant a closer look include:
- Not holding their head up by four months
- Not rolling over by six months
- No babbling or vocal play by nine months
- Not responding to their name by 12 months
- Difficulty swallowing or refusing certain foods
- Avoiding eye contact or seeming uninterested in interaction.
These signs don’t always mean something is wrong, but they do mean it’s worth seeking a professional opinion. Many families turn to early intervention services at this point for a gentle evaluation.
What Therapies Are Available if My Child Needs Support?
If early intervention is recommended, several kinds of therapy for developmental delays are available. Some of the most common include:
- Pediatric physical therapy: Supports strength, balance, and movement, including milestones like crawling, walking, and coordination.
- Pediatric speech therapy: Helps with speech development, feeding challenges, and early communication skills.
- Occupational therapy: Assists with daily activities like grasping toys, dressing, or self-feeding.
- Feeding therapy: Focuses on safe, comfortable eating for children with sensory issues or oral-motor delays.
These therapies are not about “fixing.” They’re about supporting growth in ways that feel safe, playful, and respectful of each child’s unique pace.
What Happens During an Early Intervention Evaluation?
Evaluations are designed to be gentle and collaborative. There are no tests to pass. Instead, trained professionals observe your child’s play, movement, interaction, and communication. They might ask questions about daily routines, behaviors you’ve noticed, and your own concerns.
The goal is to understand your child, not label them.
Following the evaluation, you’ll receive feedback that helps you know where your child is thriving and where extra support may help. If services are recommended, a personalized plan is created with your voice at the center.
How Do I Start the Process?
If you’re searching “early intervention near me,” there are two ways to start:
- Self-referral: You can reach out directly to Nevada Early Intervention Services (NEIS) or Capability. No doctor’s referral is needed.
- Pediatrician referral: If you feel more comfortable getting a professional recommendation, your child’s pediatrician can submit the referral on your behalf.
Both paths lead to the same compassionate process. What matters most is choosing the one that feels right for your family.
You’re Not Alone, and You Don’t Have to Wait
If something in your gut tells you to ask a question, ask it. If you’ve noticed something that doesn’t feel quite right, follow up on it. Seeking help is an act of love. No one knows your child better than you, and reaching out when something doesn’t feel right shows how deeply you’re paying attention.
Early support doesn’t just benefit your child; it gives you peace of mind, a clear plan, and people in your corner. If you’ve noticed any signs of developmental delays in your baby or toddler, or simply want guidance, request a no-cost early intervention evaluation today. We’re here to help.