Children with neurodevelopmental disorders have health conditions that disrupt the way the brain and nervous system develop. There are many different types of neurodevelopmental disorders. Some we can identify when a child is young, such as autism, Down syndrome, spina bifida, very low birth weight, and often Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Language Disorders, or learning disorders. Others are related to illness or injury and can affect a child later in life, such as a traumatic brain injury, brain tumor, spinal cord injury, childhood cancer or stroke.

The Thompson Center sees patients with a variety of developmental disorders. We know that each child grows and develops at his or her own pace; however, it can be helpful to know typical developmental markers. At the Thompson Center we are passionate about equipping families with the tools necessary for early identification of developmental delays. Early detection leads to early intervention, which is the best way to make progress in delayed areas. Below are examples of just a few developmental delays. If you suspect that your child has delays you should consult your primary care physician for a developmental screening.

Birth to 3 months:

• Does not respond to loud noises
• Does not follow moving objects with eyes by 2-3 months
• Does not smile at people by 3 months
• Cannot support head well at 3 months
• Does not push down with legs when feet are placed on a firm surface by 4 months

 

4 to 7 months:

• Shows no affection for the person who cares for them
• Has difficulty getting objects to mouth
• Does not actively reach for objects by 6 months
• Does not follow objects with both eyes

 

8 to 12 months:

• Does not crawl
• Cannot stand when supported
• Does not show interest in “peek-a-boo” or “patty cake” by 8 months
• Does not babble by 8 months (“dada”, “baba”, “mama”)

 

24 to 36 months:

• Persistent drooling or very unclear speech
• Inability to build a tower of more than 4 locks
• Inability to communicate in short phrases
• Failure to understand simple instructions

 

3 to 4 years:

• Cannot ride a trike
• Has difficulty scribbling
• Ignores other children
• Does not respond to people outside the family
• Does not engage in fantasy play