Hope starts with a plan. Early help for Kansas kids.
Parenting is a wild ride—one minute you're marveling at your baby’s first giggle, and the next, you're Googling "why won't my toddler eat anything but crackers?" But what happens when you notice something that feels a little off? Maybe your child isn’t hitting milestones like their peers. Don’t panic! Recognizing developmental delays early is key, and Infant Toddler Services of Kansas is here to help. Let’s dive into what to look for and how to get the free support your family deserves.
What Are Developmental Delays?
Developmental delays occur when a child doesn’t reach expected milestones in areas like speech, motor skills, or social interactions. These delays can range from mild to more significant challenges. The good news? Early intervention can make a huge difference. Remember: “The earlier, the better.”
Signs of Developmental Delays:
Here’s a quick cheat sheet of what to watch for in infants and toddlers:
Speech and Language Delays
By 12 months: No babbling or gestures like pointing.
By 2 years: Limited vocabulary (fewer than 50 words) or difficulty combining words into short phrases.
Motor Skill Delays
Trouble with rolling over, sitting up, crawling, or walking.
Difficulty using small muscles for tasks like grasping toys or holding a spoon.
Social and Emotional Delays
Avoiding eye contact or struggling to engage with others.
Trouble adapting to changes in routine or prolonged tantrums.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to take action. Don’t wait —trust your instincts!
What Should You Do if You Suspect a Delay?
Talk to Your Pediatrician Your pediatrician is your first stop. They are an expert at the table regarding your child's health and well-being. Share your concerns openly—they’re there to help guide you. But, you don't need your pediatrician to make a referral. If you have a concern, anyone can make a referral to Infant Toddler Services of Kansas.
Contact Infant Toddler Services of Kansas We offer free developmental evaluations for children from birth to age three. Yes, you read that right—FREE! Our evaluation team will come to your home to conduct a comprehensive developmental evaluation where your child feels most comfortable-at home!
Get an Individualized Family Service Plan If your child qualifies for services, we’ll create a customized plan tailored to their needs and your family’s goals. Think of it as a roadmap to success!
Why Early Intervention Matters
Here’s the deal: The first three years of life are critical for brain development. When delays are addressed early, children have the best chance to catch up and thrive. Plus, our services are provided in familiar environments like your home or daycare—no scary clinics here! Kansas cares, and so do we.
Let’s Build Brighter Futures Together
Whether you're a parent, grandparent, daycare provider, or pediatrician, recognizing developmental delays early can change a child’s life. Infant Toddler Services of Kansas is your safety net—offering no-cost evaluations and services that empower families across the state. So take that first step today. Because hope starts with a plan—and we’re here to help every step of the way.