When to Refer a Child for Early Intervention Services

All children develop and grow at their own pace, accomplishing certain tasks like beginning to
talk or walk. There are certain concerns regarding a young child’s development, often called red flags, that are cause for immediate referral through Help Me Grow. You should also talk with your child’s healthcare provider about your concerns.

Red flags for immediate referral

If a child shows any of the following signs, take immediate action and refer the child through Help Me Grow. You should also talk with your child’s healthcare provider about your concerns.

• No babbling, pointing or other gestures by 12 months (1 year).
• No single words by 16 months.
• No two-word phrases by 24 months (2 years).
• ANY loss of skills at any age.
• Diagnosed physical, cognitive or mental health condition or disorder that has a high probability of resulting in developmental delay, regardless of whether the child has a demonstrated need or delay.
• Delays in meeting developmental milestones such as not walking by 18 months.
• Lack of eye contact.
• Poor balance, clumsiness or weakness.
• Atypical muscle tone, such as too tight or too floppy in arms, legs or trunk.
• Speech is hard to understand for the child’s age or compared to other children who are the same age.
• Poor attention span compared to other children who are the same age.
• Behavioral concerns compared to other children who are the same age.
• Vision or hearing problems.
• High lead levels.