Children learn language at different rates, but most follow a general timeline. If your child does not seem to be reaching communication milestones within a few weeks of the average, consult your doctor as soon as possible. If your child has a language delay, early identification and treatment are important to help your child develop language and other cognitive skills at the same level as their peers.

Developmental delays tend to affect children primarily between the ages of 3 and 5. This is the stage when children are learning and perfecting their skills, including language, motor, social, emotional, and cognitive. Early diagnosis and treatment of developmental delays can help children catch up with other children their age.

Every child develops at their own pace and there are many cases where they are considered to be slower than normal. Although the road ahead will be easy and parents will constantly worry about “what to do with a mentally retarded child”, there are many ways parents can support their child at home, giving them the best chance of catching up somewhat with their peers.