When an infant or child exhibits a delay in two or more areas of development, this may be referred to as “global developmental delay”. The child may have difficulties in the following areas:
- Language or Speech
- Motor Skills (Movement)
- Social and Emotional Skills
- Cognitive Skills (Thinking)
The functioning of the central nervous system is affected. This can occur for various reasons, such as:
- A Genetic Defect (e.g. Down syndrome; Fragile X syndrome)
- A Metabolic Disorder (e.g. PKU)
- A Prenatal Factor (e.g. rubella; birth trauma; fetal alcohol syndrome caused by a mother drinking alcohol during pregnancy)
- A Perinatal Factor (e.g. prematurity or the result of a childhood injury or infection)
In some cases the cause cannot be determined. Many children with global developmental delay have difficulties with speech and language. Speech-language therapy is often an important and necessary part of the child’s overall treatment program.