Consider the following scenario: Jessica is an 18-month-old in your classroom. She is not yet walking and can say two words: “No” and “mama.” She prefers to spend time away from other children and does not express the range of emotions typical of her age group
Based on the scenario, it appears that Jessica, an 18-month-old child in your classroom, is displaying some developmental characteristics that may be of concern. Let's break down the information provided and discuss potential reasons behind her behavior.
1. Not yet walking: The average age for children to start walking independently is around 12-14 months. However, it is important to note that the age at which children meet developmental milestones can vary. To determine if there is a delay in her walking, you can compare her progress with typical developmental milestones for motor skills in this age group.
2. Limited vocabulary: At 18 months, children typically have a vocabulary of about 10-20 words, though this can vary. Jessica's ability to say only two words, "No" and "mama," may indicate a potential language delay. It is crucial to assess her language development by observing her ability to understand and follow simple instructions and how she communicates her needs.
3. Preference for alone time: It is not uncommon for children to have different temperaments and preferences when it comes to social interaction. Some children may prefer parallel play or time alone, especially at a young age. However, if Jessica consistently avoids social interactions and isolates herself from others, it may be worth exploring further to determine if there could be underlying developmental or social-emotional concerns.
4. Limited emotional expression: Babies and toddlers typically exhibit a wide range of emotions, including joy, sadness, frustration, and anger. Jessica's limited emotional expression may indicate a delay in emotional development. It would be beneficial to observe her interactions and reactions in different situations to gain a better understanding of her emotional development.
In order to assist Jessica and address any potential concerns, it is important to collaborate with her parents and consider involving professionals such as pediatricians, speech therapists, or early childhood development specialists. They can conduct further assessments, provide appropriate interventions, and offer guidance for supporting Jessica's overall development.