Developmental delay

Developmental delay is slower-than-expected acquisition of skills in areas such as movement, communication, learning, or social interaction during childhood. It may affect one or several areas and can have many causes.

Developmental milestone: A skill or behavior commonly acquired within an age range during childhood. Delays are identified by comparing a child's skills with expected milestone ranges.
Early intervention: Services that support infants and young children with developmental differences and their families. Support can target emerging skills before a definitive cause is known.
Global developmental delay: Significant delay in at least two developmental domains in a young child, before reliable intellectual assessment is possible. This describes delays spanning multiple areas rather than a single skill domain.
Neuroplasticity: The capacity of the nervous system to change its structure or function in response to experience. Early learning and intervention can shape developing neural pathways.
Developmental screening: A brief assessment used to identify children who may need fuller developmental evaluation. Screening can flag concerns but does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
Individualized Family Service Plan: A written plan coordinating early-intervention services for an eligible young child and family in the United States. It translates identified needs into family-centered goals and services.
Language delay: Slower-than-expected development of understanding or using spoken, signed, or other language. Communication may be the primary area in which development is delayed.
Child development: The physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that occur from infancy through adolescence. A delay is a difference in the pace of this broader developmental process.
Developmental assessment: A structured evaluation of a child's abilities, development, and support needs. Assessment clarifies which skills are delayed and how substantially.
Individualized Education Program: A legally defined United States school plan specifying special education and related services for an eligible student. School-age children may need formal educational supports as needs change.

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