By Age Group
At 6 Months
Doesn’t respond to sounds or turns head to locate them
Doesn’t show affection or smile at people
Poor head control or stiff/floppy limbs
Doesn’t roll over or bring objects to mouth
At 9 Months
Doesn’t sit without support
Doesn’t babble (“mama,” “baba,” “dada”)
Doesn’t recognize familiar faces
Doesn’t look where you point
At 12 Months
Doesn’t crawl or stand with support
Doesn’t say single words like “mama” or “dada”
No gestures like waving or pointing
Doesn’t respond to name
At 18 Months
Can’t walk or walking is very unsteady
Doesn’t speak at least 6–10 words
Doesn’t know what common items are for (e.g., brush, spoon)
Shows little interest in others or playing
At 2 Years
Doesn’t use 2-word phrases (e.g., “more juice”)
Has trouble following simple instructions
Doesn’t imitate actions or words
Can’t push a wheeled toy
At 3 Years
Doesn’t speak in simple sentences
Can’t work simple toys (like shape sorters)
Avoids playing with other children
Falls frequently or has difficulty with stairs
Red Flags Across Ages
Loss of skills once learned (e.g., speech or motor skills)
Lack of eye contact or emotional connection
Very limited interest in surroundings or people
Unusual behavior (hand-flapping, rocking, or extreme reactions to lights/sounds)
What Should Parents Do?
Don’t wait and see. Early intervention is key.
Talk to your pediatrician if you notice any of these signs.
Ask about developmental screening or a referral to a specialist.
