Developmental delays in preschoolers

Developmental delay is when a child takes longer to learn skills compared to other children the same age.  

Developmental milestones are a general guide, and some children may reach milestones earlier or later. 

It’s natural for parents to worry about delays, but it's important to remember that a delay in reaching certain milestones doesn’t always mean there is a long-term issue. In many cases, it simply means your child needs some extra time or support in some areas. There are services available to assess and support children with developmental delays to help them reach their full potential. 

Early identification

The earlier a developmental delay is identified, and support is put in place, the better the outcome for your child and family. 

Speak to your family doctor or paediatrician if your child isn’t developing at the same rate as other children the same age or as outlined in their blue book. The Blue Book is a free personal health record of your child that provides valuable information about their health and development. 

See the Developmental delay factsheet for more information. 

Skill regression

Regression is when a child goes backwards in their development and may behave in a younger or more dependent way.  

Skill regression can occur at any age and may happen because children are in a new situation, such as starting preschool, or they may be preparing themselves to develop further.  Some regression is normal, but if you’re concerned, talk to your family doctor or paediatrician. 

Screening for developmental delay

Developmental delays are likely to be identified at regular health check-ups with your family doctor. However, some services offer support in the year before primary school to give children the best chance to learn, grow and reach their full potential at school. 

4-year developmental checks

Many children miss out on their important four-year-old developmental checks. Free four-year developmental checks are being offered to early childhood and care services to ensure your child is on the right track before starting school. The checks involve health professionals assessing your child’s language, social, cognitive, and movement skills, as well as how their physical bodies are growing.  

Vaccinations aren’t given at these checks. These checks won’t happen without your knowledge, as you need to consent to them. Ask your child’s preschool or long-day care service to find out when the development checks are coming to your child's service. 

 If your child has already had their four-year check with your family doctor, they don’t need to have it again at preschool.  

Approximately 1 in 5 children are starting primary school with developmental difficulties. 

Statewide Eyesight Preschooler Screening (StEPS) program

The StEPS program offers a free eye test for four-year-olds before they start school.  Since young children often won’t realise or say if they’re having trouble seeing, this test is an important way to check their vision. Good eyesight is vital for learning at school, therefore, it is crucial to understand your child’s eyesight to give them the best chance to thrive.  
Most preschools or childcare centres will organise StEPS to attend their service.  If your child isn’t enrolled in care or misses the test, you can book one at your local clinic through the  StEPS website. 

The earlier vision problems are identified and treated, the better the outcome for your child.

Early intervention services

If a child has a developmental delay, early intervention can help. This means getting help early to support your child’s learning and development.  Early intervention might include therapy, support, education, and regular checks by professionals such as:  

  • occupational therapists
  • audiologists
  • physiotherapists
  • psychologists
  • speech pathologists
  • social workers. 

  • nurses 

  • doctors 

These professionals will help your child to develop the skills they need to thrive. Some children require less or no support as they get older due to early intervention.  

Talk to your doctor about accessing support for your child through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS provides funding to assist children under 6 years old with developmental delays in accessing therapy and support for early intervention.    

Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is when a child’s brain functions differently from other people of a similar age. People who are neurodivergent may see the world differently, this might affect how they think, learn, feel or interact with others. This includes conditions such as Autism and ADHD.