Global Developmental Delay
Global Developmental Delay (GDD) affects up to 3% of children, specifically younger than five years old. Some known causes include but are not limited to: genetics, infections, toxins (drug abuse, medications), prematurity, asphyxia, trauma, and psychosocial environment/neglect.
Importance of Diagnosing
- Timely initiation of treatment and/or supportive management
- Prevention of complications
- Improved prognosis/outcome/quality of life
- Access to services and resources in the community
Criteria to Diagnose
The diagnostic criteria for GDD involve significant delay in at least two of the following developmental areas:
- Gross or fine motor
- Speech/language
- Cognition
- Social/personal
- ADL’s
How to Identify Developmental Delays
- During routine developmental screening with physiotherapists and pediatricians
- Following reports and concerns from parents
- Through third-party observers such as preschool teachers or daycare providers
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Parents are encouraged to share any concerns regarding their child’s development. This will allow physiotherapists to appropriately screen for signs of other conditions and screen for signs of red flags. Physios can also help with:
- A referral to primary care physician or other healthcare practitioners
- Assess age-appropriate gross motor milestones and development
- Develop children’s running, skipping, hopping, catching, throwing, and kicking to the best of their abilities
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