You Know Your Baby Best

You may not have a degree in child’s development, but when it comes to your baby’s development you are an expert. You spend more time interacting with your little one than anyone else. You probably notice a lot of things in your baby’s development that others might miss.
When you have a concern about your child’s development don’t keep it to yourself, even if it’s because a skill that was learned seems to have been forgotten, or you just have a feeling that something’s not quite right. Child development experts say that parents can be key in the early diagnosis of developmental disorders, such as autism. Early diagnosis can lead to early intervention that can make a huge difference in the long-term future of developing child with autism or other developmental disorders.
To help parents doctors have pointed out a number of developmental red flags to look out for as early as twelve months:

• Your one-year-old doesn’t exchange back-and-forth sounds with you.
• Doesn’t point or use gestures to get needs met.
• Doesn’t enjoy playing social games (like peeka-boo or patty-cake).
• Doesn’t smile or gesture with you.
• Fails to establish and maintain eye contact.
• Doesn’t look when you point at something.
• Fails to respond when you call his or her name.

Make sure to let your doctor know when you notice that your little one shows these signs. It is possible that nothing is wrong with your bundle of joy. But further assessment can help determine if there is reason for concern.