In brief
Every child grows at their own pace. But if your child is behind other children in sitting, walking or talking, or has stopped doing something they used to do, it is a good time to visit. An early check brings peace of mind, and if there is a cause, we start a plan together that helps your child from today.
Overview
You know your child best, and your observations are always the starting point. Sometimes a delay is mild and improves with encouragement and follow-up; sometimes it is a sign of something that needs a diagnosis. The key question is: is your child moving forward slowly, or have they lost skills they had? Losing skills needs a quicker check.
Signs that call for a doctor’s opinion
- Not sitting on their own by about 9 months
- Not walking by 18 months
- Very few words after age two
- Body feels very floppy or unusually stiff
- Doesn’t look at you or turn to their name
Seek emergency care straight away for:
- Suddenly stops talking or walking after doing it well
- Has a seizure
- Is sleepy all the time, vomits a lot, or isn’t responding as usual
How is the assessment done at the clinic?
- 1
We listen
When your child sat, walked and talked, and what worries you.
- 2
We play and examine
We watch how your child moves and connects, in a way that feels comfortable.
- 3
Tests only if needed
We only ask for what truly helps us understand.
- 4
We agree a plan
Follow-up, plus development, physio or speech sessions as your child needs.
Tests that may be requested
Not every child needs all of these; tests are chosen from what the assessment shows.
Brain MRI
A picture of the brain, taken while your child is asleep and calm.
Blood and urine tests
Help check that the body is using food properly.
Genetic test
A simple blood sample to look for an inherited cause, if we suspect one.
EEG
Small painless stickers on the head, used if there are seizures.
Care and follow-up
- Regular visits to see your child’s progress step by step
- Physio, speech or skills sessions
- Treating the cause when we find it, such as a special diet in some cases
What to bring
- The vaccination and growth booklet
- Short videos of your child playing or moving
- Any previous tests or scans
- A note of your questions so you don’t forget them
Frequently asked questions
My child is late to talk. Should I wait?
If your child is past two with very few words, or behind in more than one skill, it is better for us to see them than to wait. A visit either reassures you or starts help early.
What is the difference between a delay and losing skills?
A delay means your child is learning slowly but moving forward. Losing skills means they stopped doing something they could do, and that needs a quicker visit.
Will my child need lots of tests?
Not necessarily. We choose tests carefully based on the visit, and explain why each one is needed.
Can my child catch up?
Every child is different. What we know is that starting early with follow-up and therapy helps every child reach their best.
This information is educational and should not be used to diagnose your child or change treatment without a medical assessment.