Age-Specific Warning Signs

Babies, Toddlers and Preschool-Age Children

Babies change and grow so rapidly in the first few years, that "normal" development varies greatly from child to child. Parents should try not to worry if their baby is not doing things at the exact age as a friend or relative's child. There are, however, some reasons why you might want to have your baby checked by a professional. These include:

• No curiosity, too passive.
• A baby who doesn't respond to you.
• Constant, sever difficulties in sleeping or eating.

Slow physical development can also be a warning sign that a child needs help. You should have your child checked by a pediatrician if he or she cannot do some of the things listed on the following page for his or her age group. Check the Developmental Tasks for Young Children Chart for a more comprehensive checklist.

For School-Age Children

Between the age of six and 12, a child is interested in doing things either alone or in groups. It doesn't matter if the interests are the usual ones — baseball, jump rope, etc. — or a bit more offbeat, so long as he or she finds socially acceptable outlets that are self-satisfying.

Expect your child to feel comfortable in school — although perhaps saying he or she doesn't like it. Grounds for worrying include:

• Hyperactivity, hardly ever able to sit still.
• Depression or unhappiness much of the time, constant boredom at home or at school.
• Poor social skills; not able to get along with friends; panic reactions to group situation.
• Withdrawal from people and activity; no friends.
• Too dependent on parents.
• Poor learning or difficulty in keeping up with the class at school in spite of good ability.

Next: Teenagers >>