Have you ever been told “Oh, that’s just normal,” when something about your child is raising concerns for you?
There’s a lot of advice out there when it comes to parenting. Friends, family, and even professionals may tell you that your child’s behavior or developmental quirks are “normal,” and often, they’re right. Some kids are late talkers, picky eaters, or have temper tantrums that push boundaries. But when do you know if what’s happening is actually more than a phase?
Take speech delays, for example. Many parents are reassured that late talking is common, especially for boys. But if your child isn’t speaking or understanding language as expected by certain milestones, it’s important to look deeper. Similarly, persistent sensory issues like being overly sensitive to noise or texture, or frequent and intense meltdowns, can sometimes indicate underlying challenges that may benefit from further evaluation.
Well-meaning reassurances can sometimes lead parents to wait too long before seeking answers. While many childhood behaviors are temporary, others can benefit from early interventions, such as speech therapy or occupational therapy. The key is paying attention to your child’s unique developmental journey and seeking support when your instincts tell you something is more than just a “phase.”
Take Action: If you’re feeling unsure whether your child’s behavior or development is typical, don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help you figure out if what you’re seeing is part of a normal developmental phase or if it’s worth investigating further. Your concerns are always worth listening to!