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Developmental Delay

Global Delay

This is where there's slow development in all the domains.


It could indicate an underlying pathology, such as:

  • Down’s syndrome

  • Foetal Alcohol syndrome

  • Fragile X syndrome

  • Rett syndrome


Motor Delay

Gross motor delay - causes include Cerebral palsy, Spina bifida, Visual impairment, Ataxia, Myopathy


Fine motor delay - causes include Dyspraxia, Cerebral palsy, Visual impairment, Muscular dystrophy


Language Delay

Any child suspected with this should be referred for a Full hearing test!


Language is the best indicator of future intellectual potential, and any delay is usually identified in nursery/early school years.


Causes:

  • Specific social circumstances – lack of stimulus

  • Autism

  • Hearing impairment

  • Learning disability

  • Neglect – safeguarding should be done if suspected

  • Cerebral palsy


Personal and Social Delay

Can be caused by:

  • Emotional and social neglect – safeguarding should be done if suspected

  • Parenting issues

  • Autism




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