
Every child grows at their own pace. But sometimes, a child falls behind. That is when child development and delays become a real worry for parents.
You may notice your child is not talking yet. Or not walking on time. Or not playing like other kids their age.
At the Continuum Paediatric and Specialist Centre in Deakin, Canberra, we help families just like yours. We find answers. We offer support. And we act early.
What Is Child Development?
Child development is how your child grows and learns. It covers four key areas:
- Physical growth — moving, walking, running, and using hands
- Speech and language — talking, listening, and understanding words
- Social skills — playing with others and making eye contact
- Learning and thinking — problem-solving and following simple steps
When a child is slower in one or more of these areas, it is called a developmental delay. This is more common than many parents think.
Is It Just ‘Late Blooming’?
Some children do catch up on their own. But many need help. Waiting too long can make things harder.
Early support gives your child the best start. That is why it is so important to act if you have concerns.
Early Signs of Developmental Delays
Knowing the signs of child development and delays can help you get help sooner. Here are some things to watch for:
In Babies (0 to 12 Months)
- Does not smile by 2 months
- Does not make eye contact
- Does not respond to sounds or voices
- Does not reach for objects by 6 months
- Cannot sit without help by 9 months
In Toddlers (1 to 3 Years)
- No single words by 16 months
- No two-word phrases by 24 months
- Does not point at things of interest
- Does not walk by 18 months
- Loss of skills they had before
In Older Children (3 to 5 Years)
- Hard to understand when they speak
- Struggles to follow simple instructions
- Avoids other children
- Cannot hold a pencil or draw basic shapes
- Very short attention span
If you see any of these signs, talk to a paediatric specialist. Do not wait. Early help makes a real difference.
What Causes Developmental Delays?
There is no single cause. Many things can affect how a child develops. Some causes include:
Genetic Conditions
Some children are born with conditions like Down syndrome. These can affect how they grow and learn.
Premature Birth
Babies born early may need more time to reach milestones. They often catch up, but may need extra support.
Hearing or Vision Problems
If a child cannot hear or see well, they may fall behind in speech and learning. A simple test can find these issues early.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Children with autism may show delays in speech, social skills, and behaviour. An early assessment is key.
To learn more, read other related blog: ADHD and Autism Assessments for Children: When to Seek Professional Support
Environment and Nutrition
A child’s home life matters. Poor nutrition, stress, or lack of play can slow development. Support at home helps too.
When Should You See a Specialist?
You know your child best. Trust your gut. If something feels off with their child development and delays, reach out.
You do not need to wait for a crisis. It is okay to ask for help early. That is what we are here for.
Speak to a Specialist If:
- Your child misses two or more milestones
- They lose skills they had already learned
- You are worried about how they talk or play
- Their teacher or carer has raised concerns
- They struggle at home or in social settings
A GP referral is needed to see our team at Continuum. Your GP can help you start the process.
How We Help at Continuum Paediatric and Specialist Centre
Our team is led by Dr Vijay Wagh — a specialist with over 20 years of experience. He focuses on neurodevelopmental and behavioural paediatrics.
We also work with other specialists. This gives your child well-rounded, joined-up care.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
We take time to understand your child. We look at their full history. We watch how they move, talk, and interact.
We may refer you to other professionals too — like speech therapists, psychologists, or occupational therapists.
Our Services for Developmental Delays
- Developmental assessments for babies, toddlers, and older children
- Diagnosis of conditions like ASD, ADHD, and learning disorders
- Chronic and complex care management
- Care plans built around your child’s needs
- Follow-up support for your whole family
Our clinic is a safe, kind space. We want your child to feel at ease. And we want you to feel heard.
Why Early Support Matters
The brain grows fastest in the first five years of life. This is the best time to step in.
Early help does not just fix problems. It builds skills. It boosts confidence. It changes lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What age should I be concerned about developmental delays?
A: You can watch for signs from birth. If your baby is not meeting key milestones by the expected age, raise it with your GP or paediatrician. Earlier is always better.
Q: Do I need a referral to see a paediatric specialist at CPSC?
A: Yes. You will need a referral from your GP or another specialist. Your GP can help you get this. Then call us on 02 6152 8340 to book.
Q: What happens at a developmental assessment?
A: Our specialist will take a full history of your child. They will observe how your child moves, talks, and plays. They may ask for reports from your child’s school or therapists. A care plan will follow.
Q: Can delays be fixed with the right support?
A: Many children make great progress with early help. Some may need longer-term support. Our team will guide you every step of the way.
Q: What if my child also has signs of autism or ADHD?
A: We assess these conditions too. ADHD and autism often go hand in hand with developmental delays. Read our blog on ADHD and Autism Assessments to learn more about the process.
Book Your Child’s Appointment
Continuum Paediatric and Specialist Centre — Canberra
Website: mycpsc.com.au/contact
Phone: 02 6152 8340
Email: reception@mycpsc.com.au
Address: Deakin Professional Centre, 5/46 Geils Court, Deakin ACT 2600