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Signs of Developmental Delay

Is My Child on Track?
What to Watch For
as They Grow

If your child is missing milestones in speech, play, social skills, daily routines, or behavior, early awareness can help. Learn when a missed milestone might be a sign of developmental delay, signs to look for in children ages 2–5, and how to take the next steps. This process is not about labeling your child. It is about gaining clarity and creating a plan to help them succeed.

Learn the Signs by Age

You Know Your Child Best

If something feels off, trust your instincts.

Many parents are told to wait, that their child will “figure it out.” But when a child is missing important developmental milestones, waiting can delay support that helps them learn, communicate, and thrive. Think about how you learn. In most cases, learning is about building one skill on top of another. Keying in on missed milestones early can help your child master the foundational skills needed to continue to learn, grow, and thrive. You do not need to wait to begin asking the right questions.

Developmental Red Flags

Missed Milestones by Age

Age 2

24 Months

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Age 3

36 Months

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Age 4

48 Months

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Age 5

60 Months

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View Age 2

You may want to consider an evaluation, if your child:

– is not using at least 50 words
– is not combining 2 words
– does not point to show interest
– does not respond to their name consistently

View Age 3

It may be time to take the next step, if your child:

– is using fewer words than expected (around 50 words by age 2)
– is hard to understand when speaking
– is not using short sentences or combining words into short phrases
– does not engage in pretend play
– struggles to follow two-step directions
– has difficulty with sensory experiences (sounds, textures, transitions)

View Age 4

Consider an evaluation, if your child:

– has trouble answering simple questions like, “How old are you?”
– is not combining words into short phrases
– struggles with transitions from one task or setting to the next
– has difficulty interacting with peers
– has difficulty calming themselves
– shows repetitive or rigid play patterns

View Age 5

Your child may benefit from an evaluation, if they:

– cannot tell a simple story
– struggle to properly hold a pencil or pen
– have trouble using utensils
– cannot zip or button their own clothing
– struggle with daily routines like dressing or feeding themselves
– have difficulty participating in play
– have difficulty making or keeping friends
– struggle with classroom readiness skills
– have ongoing speech, sensory, or behavior concerns

How Early Intervention Supports Your Child +

Speech Therapy

Supports communication, language development, expressing wants and needs, and a child's ability to self-advocate.

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Occupational Therapy

Helps with sensory processing, fine motor skills, daily routines, and independence.

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ABA Therapy

Builds communication. behavior, social and daily living skills through individualized support.

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What a Developmental Evaluation Can Tell You

A developmental evaluation can help you understand:

  • how your child communicates
  • how they learn and process the world
  • whether they may benefit from therapy
  • what next steps make sense for your family

Having your child evaluated for developmental delays is not about putting a label on your child. It is about gaining insight and giving them the tools that they need to be continue to learn and grow.

How to Get Your Child Evaluated

  1. Fill Out the Free Milestones Checklist
  2. Talk to your child’s pediatrician
  3. Schedule a diagnostic evaluation

 

Signs You Should Not Wait to Ask for Help

Some developmental concerns should be addressed as soon as possible.

These include:

  • loss of previously learned skills
  • no words by age 2
  • not responding to name
  • no pretend play by age 3
  • severe difficulty with communication, behavior, or daily routines

If you are seeing any of these signs, asking about an evaluation now can help your child access support earlier.

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