Developmental delay guidance

Areas of concern by age range and examples of motor skills 

Before referring

A child of 3 months old would typically be able to lift its head against gravity, lying on tummy, for short periods. If the child lacks head control, encourage increased tummy time.

A child of 6 to 8 months old would typically be able to roll between lying on their back and their front. If the child is not able to roll encourage increased tummy time, hands to feet and facilitated rolling.

A child of 7 to 9 months old would typically be able to sit independently. If the child is not able to sit, reduce support given gradually to improve balance and core stability.

A child of 8 to 12 months old would typically be able to reciprocal crawl or bottom shuffle and move out of sitting. If the child is not able to move around the floor, encourage movement from sitting to crawling position and play on hands and knees.

A child of 10 to 14 months old would typically be able to pull to stand at a stable surface. If the child is not able to stand, try placing toys at a higher level. This will encourage the child to weight bear for play

A child of 14 to 20 months old would typically be able to walk independently. If the child is not able to walk, encourage furniture cruising. Walking with push along toys may help them to improve their confidence.

Read our information on early years movement skills and development for practical advice to encourage development and try the suggested activities for at least 4 weeks before referring.

When to refer

If there is no change in 4 weeks and you have additional developmental concerns, please refer to the Childrens Physiotherapy Service.