Grow Learning Centre's model provides individually designed intervention programs for children ages six weeks to six years who have been diagnosed with developmental disabilities. A developmental delay means a child is not developing skills within the expected time frame.

These delays can occur in one or more areas:

• Cognitive (thinking and learning)
• Language and communication
• Motor skills (fine and gross)
• Social and emotional development
• Adaptive skills (daily living)

Early detection can make a significant difference in how children respond to interventions and supports, potentially improving long-term outcomes.

Key Signs to Watch for by Age

Infants (0–12 months)

• Not smiling or responding to voices by 3 months
• Lack of eye contact
• Poor head control by 4 months
• Not babbling or cooing by 6–9 months
• Not sitting up without help by 9 months
• No gestures like pointing or waving by 12 months

Toddlers (1–3 years)

• Not walking by 18 months
• Limited vocabulary or not using two-word phrases by age 2
• Doesn’t follow simple directions
• Lack of interest in interactive games like peek-a-boo
• Doesn’t imitate actions or words
• Frequent meltdowns with little ability to self-soothe

Preschoolers (3–5 years)

• Speech is difficult for strangers to understand
• Limited play with peers or difficulty sharing
• Trouble dressing themselves or using the toilet
• Struggles with motor skills like running, climbing, or using crayons
• Difficulty focusing or sitting still for short activities

When to Be Concerned

It’s important to remember that occasional delays or differences don’t always indicate a problem. However, consistent struggles across settings (home, daycare, school) or regression (losing previously acquired skills) are red flags that warrant professional attention.

Some general signs that should prompt further evaluation:

• A "gut feeling" that something isn’t right
• A significant gap compared to same-age peers
• Lack of progress over time
• Family history of developmental conditions

If you feel your child may be exhibiting some of these characteristics, please contact us at 501-850-8788 (Little Rock) and 501-794-6482 (Benton) and ask for our Admissions Specialist. They can walk you through what steps you would like to take to see if you child is having any type of delays.