The following may be signs of developmental delay. There is a wide range of typical development. However, follow up with a pediatrician if your child shows signs of delays.

Causes of intellectual delay can include:

• Learning disabilities
• Down syndrome
• Pervasive developmental disorder
• Neglect during infancy or early childhood
• Genetic disorders
• Exposure to alcohol or toxins during pregnancy

Remember, though, that most delays are not serious. Most children eventually catch up. Even children with serious developmental delays can make big improvements when intervention begins as early as possible. Treatment may include early intervention with an educator or therapist with emphasis on a home program to facilitate intellectual skills.

Birth to Three Months

• Does not smile
• Does not pay attention to new faces

Three to Six Months

• Does not smile or laugh

Six to Twelve Months
By 7 months:

• Shows minimal affection towards the caregiver; refuses to cuddle
• Does not seem to enjoy being around people
• Does not attempt to attract attention of others

By 12 months:

• Does not point to objects
• Does not search for hidden objects
• Does not use gestures, such as shaking the head or waving

Twelve to Eighteen Months

• Shows lack of interest in grasping and exploring objects with the hands
• Shows lack of interest in picture books and toys
• Shows lack of interest in playing with adults or other children

Eighteen to Twenty-four Months

• Has decreased understanding of the function of common objects
• Does not follow or understand one-step instructions

  Two to Three Years

• Has decreased interest in interactive games
• Demonstrates poor attention to games, other children, family members
• Has decreased interest in fantasy play
• Has no interest in other children
• Doesn’t respond to people other than family members
• Continues to have great difficulty separating from parents

Three to Five Years

• Continues to protest when separated from parents
• Refuses to respond to people and has little interest in other children
• Does not engage in a variety of activities
• Is excessively aggressive or extremely fearful and timid
• Does not engage in fantasy play

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