- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Mindy Hudon Speech and Language Pathologist | ||
 |
What are the warning signs that my baby may have a developmental delay?
Developmental milestones are used as a guide to know what children typically do at certain ages. Every child is different, however, and may meet these milestones earlier or later than indicated. However, you should be concerned if:
- Your baby does not startle or respond to sounds.
- By 3 months, your baby does not turn toward the source of sound or your voice.
- By 8 months, your baby does not babble, imitate speech sounds or use his voice to gain your attention.
- By 8 to 12 months, your baby does not respond when people talk to him or show interest in attempting to communicate.
If you have any concerns about your baby's hearing or speech/language, discuss them with your pediatrician. Early identification of hearing, speech or language problems is critical. Identifying potential problems early not only can assist with speech and language development, but also can prevent difficulties in the future with behavior, social interactions and academics.
For more information, contact the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association at (800) 638-8255 or visit its Web site at www.asha.org.
Related Expert Q&A
- Can play affect a child's personality?
- I sometimes feel guilty when I just let my children play and do not join in. Should I always participate in their playtime?
- Is TV really that bad for children? Should I really be concerned?
- What are the warning signs that my baby may have a developmental delay?
- I have a newborn, and am curious about language development. When does it start?
More Answers by this Expert
- My 10-month-old's babbles are starting to sound more like actual letters now. What letter sounds are generally a baby's first?
- My 1-year-old has started to say two-syllable words such as "ma ma," "da da," "ba ba" and "boo boo." What are some techniques to increase his vocabulary?
- Where is a good place to find videotapes, CDs, etc., for teaching my child different languages?
- Is it true that learning a foreign language at the preschool and toddler age is easier than for a middle school child?
- My 7-year-old still talks with a slight lisp. Should I consider speech therapy?