Developmental delay is a term used when a child is developing skills more slowly than other children in the same age group in the areas of speech and language, motor skills, self-help, play and problem-solving. When more than one area of development is affected, the term Global Development Delay may be used. Children with developmental delay may have associated diagnoses or conditions such as prematurity (born too early), inherited disorders, chronic illness (including epilepsy), infections, problems with hearing and vision. Environmental, dietary and social factors may also contribute.

What we can do…

All children with developmental delay still have the potential to learn and develop but they may need additional support to achieve your goals and their potential. Occupational Therapy can assist your child to develop the skills required for play, fine motor, self-help, and problem-solving/cognition. Our therapists are skilled in providing directive and fun therapy intervention in order to work towards success in your identified goal areas. Our occupational therapists will provide engaging activities that may promote basic play skills such as “take out” and “put in” or more complex fine motor skills such as pincer grasp that allow your child to participate in preschool tables top activities such as puzzles, threading and drawing. We also assist with the transition to school and fine motor and cognitive skills required during the school years. Equipment prescription or environmental solutions may be required for home or school. Consultation regarding toileting can also be given.

What you can do…

The earlier a child’s developmental delay is identified and supports are put in place, the better outcome for the child and family. If you are concerned about your child’s development please speak with your community health service or General Practitioner. All children develop skills at a different rate you can assist your child’s development by talking and reading to them, providing the opportunity for suitable and sufficient gross motor and fine motor activity, and by playing with them and showing them how to play with certain toys/objects. Dependent on your child’s age you can encourage your child to participate in all activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, and toileting to the best of their abilities and then encourage them to attempt the next or more complex part of the activity. If your child is attending preschool it is a good idea to talk with staff and select some specific toys/skills that can be practiced at home. Your child will gain confidence and improved self-esteem with their achievements may have improved relation with their peers as well as the enthusiasm to learn another skill.