In short: Developmental delay is when a young child is slower than expected to reach milestones in one or more areas — movement, communication, thinking, social or emotional skills. If you are worried, it is always okay to seek advice early: early support makes a real difference.
What is developmental delay?
Children develop at their own pace, but they tend to reach certain milestones within broad age ranges. Developmental delay is when a child is noticeably slower to reach these milestones than most children their age. It can affect one area or several.
The main areas of development are:
- Movement (motor skills) — sitting, crawling, walking, holding objects
- Communication — understanding words, talking, gestures
- Thinking and learning (cognitive skills)
- Social and emotional — playing, interacting, managing feelings
- Daily living — feeding, dressing and self-care
What are the signs to look for in toddlers?
Signs vary with age, but reasons to check in with a professional can include a toddler who:
- Is not babbling, pointing or using gestures
- Has few or no words by around two years
- Is not walking by around 18 months
- Has difficulty with eye contact or playing with others
- Does not follow simple instructions
- Loses skills they previously had
Every child is different, and one sign on its own may not mean anything. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it is worth asking.
When should you seek help?
You do not need to "wait and see." If you have concerns about your child's development, speak with your GP, child health nurse or an allied health professional. For young children, getting in early means support can start sooner, when it tends to have the greatest impact.
How does early intervention help?
Early intervention is therapy, support and education that helps young children build the skills they need for everyday life. Depending on the child, it might involve occupational therapy, speech pathology, psychology or physiotherapy — often working together. The goal is to support development and help children take part in play, learning and family life.
Under the NDIS early childhood approach, children younger than 9 with developmental concerns can get help, and younger children may not need a diagnosis to receive early support.
How can we help?
Our team provides occupational therapy, speech pathology and other allied health services for children across Melbourne's west. You can check your eligibility, make a referral, or contact our team — support is available in several languages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between developmental delay and disability?
Developmental delay means a child is developing more slowly than expected; some children catch up with support, while for others a delay may be linked to a longer-term disability. An assessment helps understand what is going on and what support will help — regardless of any diagnosis.
Does my child need a diagnosis to get help?
Not necessarily. Under the NDIS early childhood approach, younger children with developmental concerns can get support without a formal diagnosis. Speaking with your GP, child health nurse or an early childhood professional is a good first step.
Which professionals help with developmental delay?
It depends on the area of concern. Occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychologists and physiotherapists all support different aspects of development, and they often work together as a team around the child and family.
Is it better to "wait and see"?
Generally, no. If you have concerns, seeking advice early means any support can start sooner, when it tends to make the biggest difference. Asking does not commit you to anything — it simply gives you information.
Can the NDIS help my child?
The NDIS may support children with developmental delay or disability, along with their families, through the early childhood approach for children younger than 9. An early childhood partner can help you understand what is available, even before any NDIS decision.
Trusted sources for further reading
- Raising Children Network — Developmental delay in children
- Raising Children Network — Language delay in children
- NDIS — Guide to the early childhood approach (children younger than 9)
This article is general information only and does not replace individual professional advice. If you are worried about your child's development, please speak with your GP, child health nurse or a qualified allied health professional.
