When Should You Consider Getting a Diagnosis for Your Child?

As a parent, it can be hard to know when your child needs extra help or if they’re just going through a phase. However, there are certain signs of delays that might indicate it’s time to seek a professional diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis early can ensure your child gets the support they need to grow and thrive. Here’s how to know when to take that step.

1. Missing Important Milestones

Children grow and develop at their own pace, but there are some general milestones they should reach by certain ages. If your child isn’t hitting these milestones, it might be worth talking to a professional about the delays.

• Talking: By 18 months, most children can say about 10-20 words. By age 2, they should start putting two words together, like “want juice.”. By age 3, they will begin to answer questions from adults about ‘who’, ‘what’ and ‘where’. If your child isn’t doing this, it could be a sign of delays.
• Movement: By the age of 2, they should able to kick a ball, run, walks up stair or eats with a spoon. By the age of 3, they should also have basic dressing skills, such as taking off shoes, pulling up pants, or wearing a jacket.
• Socializing and playing: If your child avoids eye contact, doesn’t respond to their name by 12 months, or shows little interest in playing with others, this could be a sign of social challenges. By the age of 3, they should be able to engage in simple pretend play, like pretending to cook like a mom, drive like a dad, or playing school with their toys.

2. Behavioral Issues

All children have their moments, but if certain behaviors are extreme or happen a lot, it might be time to seek help.

• Tantrums: It’s normal for young children to have tantrums, but if they’re frequent, intense, and hard to manage, it could signal a deeper issue.
• Aggression: If your child is often aggressive toward others or you, including animals or adults, it’s something to look into.
• Hyperactivity or Inattention: If your child is always on the go, can’t sit still, or has trouble paying attention to tasks, it might be more than just high energy.

3. Struggles with Emotions or Socializing

If your child seems to have a hard time with emotions or making friends at kindergarten or school, it might be more than just shyness or moodiness. It could be a sign of delays.

• Making Friends: If your child has trouble making or keeping friends, or seems to avoid playing with other kids, it could be a sign they need help.
• Anxiety or Mood Swings: If your child is often very anxious, worried, or has big mood swings, this could indicate they’re struggling emotionally.
• Withdrawing: If your child suddenly wants to be alone all the time, loses interest in things they used to enjoy, or stops participating in activities, it might be time to seek advice.

4. Trusting Your Parental Instincts

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. If you feel like something isn’t quite right with their development, don’t ignore that feeling. Even if others tell you that your child will “grow out of it,” it’s better to get a professional opinion to either address any concerns or give you peace of mind.

5. Concerns from Teachers or Caregivers

Sometimes, teachers, daycare providers, or other caregivers notice things that you might not see at home. If someone who works with your child brings up a concern, it’s worth considering an evaluation. They see your child in different situations and can offer valuable insights.

Taking Action: Act Early

If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s a good idea to talk to our clinical psychologist. She can help you figure out if your child needs further evaluation or if early intervention might be beneficial.

Remember, getting a diagnosis isn’t about labelling your child; it’s about understanding their unique needs and ensuring they get the help they need to succeed. The earlier you take action, the better chance your child has to develop their full potential and lead a happy, fulfilling life.