# What should I do if I am concerned about my child's developmental delay? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-to-do-if-concerned-about-child-developmental-delay Language: en Category: pediatrics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.225Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.225Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-to-do-if-concerned-about-child-developmental-delay If you are concerned about your child's developmental delay, the first and most important step is to schedule an appointment with your pediatrician and discuss your observations clearly with them. Parental observation is an essential and complementary part of healthcare, as it helps detect developmental gaps early, giving the child a better chance to receive the support and services necessary to help them overcome challenges in the areas of play, learning, language, and behavior [\[3\]](). ## The Importance of Ongoing Developmental Monitoring Developmental monitoring involves tracking how your child grows and changes over time by observing whether they are reaching developmental milestones in their physical, intellectual, social, and emotional domains. There is no single rigid definition of what is "normal," as children grow at very different rates, and their speed of development is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, nutrition, and level of physical activity [\[1\]](). You can use checklists to track your child's progress, but always remember that these tools are for home monitoring and do not replace professional medical evaluation if you feel there is a gap. ## When Should You Request a Formal Evaluation? In addition to home monitoring, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends conducting formal, structured developmental screenings during routine well-child visits at 9 months, 18 months, and 30 months. It is also recommended to perform a specific screening for autism spectrum disorder at 18 months and 24 months [\[3\]](). If these screenings are not performed at the scheduled time, or if you or your doctor have concerns about your child's development at any other stage, you should not wait for the next periodic appointment; you can request a developmental screening during an urgent visit [\[3\]](). ## How to Talk to Your Doctor About Your Concerns When visiting the clinic, be specific in describing your observations. Instead of saying, "I think there is a general delay," try to provide the doctor with clear examples of what you have observed. You can use a notebook to record dates and skills that cause you concern, such as speech delay, difficulty with social interaction, or not reaching motor skills expected for their age. The doctor will evaluate the condition based on scientific criteria and clinical observation, and may decide to perform a formal screening using validated measurement tools to ensure diagnostic accuracy [\[3\]](). To help identify the right path, you can review our guide on [Child developmental milestones from birth to 5 years (Arabic)]() to understand what is expected at each age stage. ## Early Intervention and Next Steps If the evaluation confirms a developmental delay, the next step is usually a referral to early intervention systems. These programs aim to provide specialized services to support your child in their home or educational environment. These systems vary by country; many offer services for children from birth to 3 years old, while public schools handle support for those over age three [\[3\]](). The need for early intervention does not mean there is a chronic problem; it means your child needs additional, targeted support to develop their current skills. It is essential to commit to follow-up with the specialized medical team, as timely intervention can positively change the trajectory of a child's development and future. ## Medical references - [Developmental Monitoring and Screening]() - [Child Development]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-to-do-if-concerned-about-child-developmental-delay#answer