What To Do When You Suspect Your Child Has a Developmental Delay

What To Do When You Suspect Your Child Has a Developmental Delay: One Step at a Time

As a parent, it can be incredibly overwhelming when you start to feel that your child might not be reaching certain milestones or developing in the way you expected. I remember feeling completely lost when I first had concerns about my own child’s development. I didn’t know where to begin or who to turn to for support. I wanted to do everything I could to help, but I found myself bouncing from one therapy to the next, hoping to find the answers. If you’re in this situation right now, I want you to know that you’re not alone—and that taking things one step at a time is the best approach.

Trust Your Instincts - You Know Your Child Best

I learned early on that, as a parent, I know my child better than anyone else. If you notice that your child is struggling with certain tasks—like talking, walking, or playing with others—it’s important to trust your instincts. Even though well-meaning friends and family might say, “Oh, they’ll catch up,” it’s crucial to listen to that little voice inside that tells you something might be off. Early intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s life. According to Reimagine (2023), the earlier help is sought, the better the potential outcomes for your child.

Start by Seeking Professional Help

One of the first things I did was reach out to my local GP and gained a referal to a paediatrician, but I also remember feeling overwhelmed by all the information thrown at me. It’s easy to feel like you have to fix everything at once, but it helps to focus on taking one small step at a time. Speaking to your GP, a child health nurse, Bushkids or an early childhood intervention service can be a good starting point. They can help you understand what’s going on and point you in the right direction for support. I found that breaking it down like this made the journey less intimidating.

Take Advantage of Early Intervention Services

When I first learned about Early Childhood Intervention , I didn’t fully grasp how much it could benefit my child. Early Childhood Intervention practitioners work with families to support children in areas like communication, motor skills, and social interactions. Practitioners available to support your child might include a Play Therapist, Speech Therapist, Psychologist, Occupational Therapist, etc. Taking a holistic approach really helped us see progress in a more structured, yet nurturing, way. One of the things I appreciated the most was that they not only focused on my child but also helped build my confidence as a parent, showing me how to support my child’s learning at home. If you’re feeling uncertain, remember that these professionals are there to guide you every step of the way.

Build Your Support Network -You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Looking back, one of the most important things I did was build a network of support around my family. It’s easy to feel isolated or like no one else understands what you’re going through. But I found comfort in reaching out to people who could provide practical and emotional support—whether it was friends, family, or professionals. Even attending therapy sessions with my child helped me meet other parents who were in similar situations. Together, we shared stories, tips, and encouragement. Support networks like these can be invaluable, helping you to feel less alone in the journey.

Take It One Step at a Time

When you’re worried about your child’s development, it’s easy to feel like you need to have all the answers right now. I remember that sense of urgency all too well. But what I’ve learned is that it’s okay to take it slow. Early intervention is about building skills gradually, and that applies to both you and your child. You don’t have to solve everything at once. Start by gathering information, then take the next step. It’s a process, and every little bit of progress counts.

If you’re currently concerned about your child’s development, please reach out to Inspiring Play: Child and Family Play Therapy Sunshine Coast. I’ve been where you are, and I understand how daunting it can be. Together, we can work to create the best path forward for your child. Early intervention is key, and I’m here to help guide and support you along the way.

By sharing some of my own experiences, I hope to reassure you that there is help available, and it’s okay to feel unsure at first. Taking things one step at a time was the best way forward for me and my family, and it can be for you too.