There is an important difference between a child who is late to walk or talk, and a child who could already sit, talk or use their hands and then starts to lose those skills. Losing skills always needs a prompt check by a pediatric neurologist, to look for the cause.
What is developmental regression?
Developmental regression means a child loses movement, language, thinking or vision skills that they had been using on their own for months. It can happen slowly or quite suddenly. It is sometimes linked to rare conditions that affect the brain’s white matter, how cells store and break down materials, or how cells make energy.
Warning signs that need an urgent appointment
- Losing movement skills: a child who stood or walked now stumbles and falls often, or can no longer sit without support.
- Losing hand skills: no longer holding a spoon or toys, or avoiding using the hands.
- Losing words or connection: stopping words they used to say, or responding less to their name or your smile.
- New jerks or stiffening: sudden, shock-like jerks, or stiffening, especially during sleep.
- Trouble swallowing or constant drooling in a child who used to eat normally.
- Changes in vision or unsteady, wobbling eye movements.
What the assessment involves
- A careful neurological exam: muscle strength, reflexes, balance and coordination.
- A detailed brain MRI: to look at the brain’s structure and white matter.
- Blood tests that check how the body’s enzymes and energy systems are working.
- Genetic testing, such as an exome test, to look for the exact cause when needed.
Trust what you notice: If your child has lost a skill they used to have, take a short video and book an assessment soon. You know your child best.