Child Development and Public Health

Why be concerned if a baby shows signs of developmental delay? Won't she just grow out of it?

Developmental delays can have future negative effects on your child, which may lead to speech and language difficulties, behavioral problems and learning problems.

How can I prevent developmental delay in my baby?

There isn't one "right way" to prevent developmental delay. Consult a pediatrician for specific activities for your child. Some activities such as singing and reading to your child help to stimulate cognition and recognition of a mother's voice by her child.

What is early childhood intervention?

The intent of early child intervention is to lay a foundation, in conjunction with the family, to support infants as they grow and mature into healthy individuals. Healthy means the best possible outcome the physical, mental, and social functioning and well-being of an individual.

I have concerns that my child could have a developmental delay. Whom do I contact to get my child a developmental assessment in my state?

Consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about your child's development. An additional resource, the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center, lists early intervention programs by state. It is important to remember, however, that there is a range of what is considered normal development. Some babies may accomplish certain tasks or reach a specific developmental milestone sooner or later than others.

How is CDC working to improve child developmental outcomes?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is committed to promoting optimal child health outcomes by preventing developmental delay and disabilities. Following is a description of our current programs.

Legacy for Children

Legacy for Children is a parenting intervention and research project that seeks to learn how to help children develop into happy, successful, and healthy individuals. Research shows that children are more likely to overcome challenges and obstacles when their parents are involved and committed to providing a safe, strong base of support. Through weekly group meetings, Legacy for Children aims to enhance the mother/child relationship by helping mothers to realize the importance of establishing a nurturing and responsive relationship with their child. The focus of group meetings is to foster each mother's sense of parental responsibility and feelings of competency as a parent.

The program is currently being implemented at the University of California, Los Angeles and at the University of Miami.

Content source: National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities