Every child develops at their own pace, but there are certain "markers" on the journey that help us know if they need a little extra support. At SOLO Ministries, we use the Team NYCK approach: we never yield in seeking the knowledge our children need.
Use this guide to track your child's progress. If you notice your child is missing several of these markers, it may be time to speak with your pediatrician about a developmental screening.
By 6 Months
[ ] Shows big smiles or joyful expressions.
[ ] Makes eye contact with you.
[ ] Reaches for toys or objects.
By 12 Months (1 Year)
[ ] Responds to their name being called.
[ ] Babbles (makes "mama" or "dada" sounds).
[ ] Uses back-and-forth gestures like waving, pointing, or reaching.
By 18 Months
[ ] Uses at least several simple words.
[ ] Points to show you something interesting (like a bird or a plane).
[ ] Plays simple pretend games (like feeding a doll).
By 24 Months (2 Years)
[ ] Uses two-word phrases (like "more milk" or "go park").
[ ] Knows what to do with common objects (like a brush or a phone).
[ ] Follows simple, one-step instructions.
If you notice any of the following, don't wait. Acting early makes a world of difference.
Loss of Skills: Your child stops saying words or doing social things they used to do.
No Eye Contact: Your child consistently avoids looking at faces.
Unusual Play: They prefer to line up toys or spin objects rather than "play" with them.
Sensory Sensitivity: Intense reactions to certain sounds, textures, or lights.
Download the App: We highly recommend the CDC Milestone Tracker App for your phone. It’s a free tool that fits our "Creating Knowledge" mission perfectly.
Talk to Your Doctor: Take this checklist to your next well-child visit.
Contact Us: If you are worried or just need someone to talk through these steps with, reach out to SOLO Ministries. We are here to help you navigate what comes next.
Next Steps: How to Talk to Your Pediatrician
Many parents feel "brushed off" with the phrase "Let's just wait and see." At SOLO Ministries, we advocate for "Act Early" instead of "Wait and See." Use these specific phrases to get the help your child deserves.
“Doctor, I have some specific concerns about [Child's Name]’s development. I’ve been tracking their milestones using a checklist from SOLO Ministries/the CDC, and I’d like to go over a few areas where they aren't meeting the markers.”
Don't just say "they aren't talking." Use specific examples:
“At 18 months, [Child's Name] still isn't pointing to show me things.”
“He doesn't consistently respond to his name when I call him.”
“She seems to have lost some of the words she was saying three months ago.”
This is where you Never Yield. Use these follow-up questions:
“I understand some children develop later, but I am very concerned. Can we do a formal developmental screening today (like the M-CHAT)?”
“If we wait six months to see if they catch up, will we lose valuable time for Early Intervention?”
“Can you provide me with a referral to a developmental pediatrician or an audiologist just to rule everything out?”
“I would like a referral for a Speech Evaluation and an Early Intervention (Infant & Toddler Connection of VA) screening. Can you help me get that started today?”
In Virginia, you do not need a doctor's referral to call the Infant & Toddler Connection. You can call them yourself!