Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question, we’ve got answers! This section includes frequently asked questions about topics found on Pathways.org. Don’t see your question answered? Email us at friends@ pathways.org.
For more information on any of these frequently asked questions call 1.800.955.CHILD for more resources and support.
1. I am concerned because my baby isn’t holding up her head or pushing up on her arms. She is older than 3 months. What should I do?
You are right to be concerned. Remember, you know your baby best and should follow your instincts. It is time to contact your doctor and raise concerns about your child’s development. Also, be sure to do plenty of tummy time with your baby. This encourages the strengthening of the muscles in her upper body, back, and neck that she doesn’t exercise while lying on her back. She needs these strong muscles to lift her head, learn to crawl, and eventually learn to climb and run.
Download the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
View our tummy time tutorial, Essential Tummy Time Moves, for more tips on how to engage your baby in tummy time play
2. I would like to track my baby’s growth and development milestones. Are there any materials to do so?
We applaud you for taking such an active role in your baby’s health! The Pathways Awareness brochure, Assure the Best for your Baby’s Physical Development, allows you to track and compare your baby’s physical development to the milestones he is supposed to reach for his age. Watch for signs of delay and share your concerns with a health care professional.
*This chart is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics & the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners.
Download the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Order the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
3. My baby doesn’t like Tummy Time. Should I be concerned? What should I do?
For all babies, spending time on their tummy during the day is just as important as going to sleep on their back at night. At first many babies don’t like tummy time, but after many short sessions on their stomach most babies learn to love the interaction that comes from this play time activity. Below are some links to assist you with Tummy Time activities.
View our Tummy Time tutorial, Essential Tummy Time Moves, for more tips on how to engage your baby in tummy time play.
Read more information from our national survey of pediatric therapists about the significant increase in babies missing their developmental milestones because of a lack of Tummy Time.
4. I am a grandparent and concerned with the development of my grandchild. Are there materials/resources I can share with my son or daughter about their baby’s development?
As a grandparent, spending quality time with your grandchildren is very important. You may pick up on some early signs that your grandchild is not meeting his or her physical milestones. It is important to raise your concerns to your son or daughter and encourage them to take this information to their pediatrician or healthcare provider. Sometimes information from a neutral party can assist in early detection and intervention. Pass our materials on to your family, because early intervention gives all children with sensory, communication and motor delays the promise of a brighter future.
Download the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Order the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Take a look at our online resources on infant development {Link to the Monthly Milestones page}
5. My baby’s pediatrician doesn’t seem concerned with my child’s development and has a "wait and see" attitude. I think something isn’t quite right. What can I do?
Many babies meet the developmental milestones a little early or a little late. As a parent, you are the expert on your child and should always trust your instincts. If you feel your baby is developing at a pace that concerns you, you may want to schedule an out-of-cycle visit with your pediatrician or healthcare provider within a few weeks to reassess your baby’s development or you may want to seek a second opinion. You can see the links below for more information on developmental milestones and additional resources on growth and development.
Download the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Order the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Take a look at our online resources on infant development.
6. One of my twins is developing at a different rate from his brother. Where can I get more information about his development? Should I be concerned?
With multiples, it is natural to make comparisons. If you feel that one of your babies is developing at a different pace from his sibling, you are right to be concerned. You may feel that both babies are not meeting their developmental milestones. You can begin by taking a look at the Pathways Awareness brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development. This includes a chart that helps you watch for signs of delay. Always listen to your instincts and contact your doctor or healthcare professional with your concerns as soon as possible.
Download the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Order the brochure, Assure Baby’s Physical Development.
Take a look at our online resources on infant development.
7. My baby was recently diagnosed with Hypotonia. I am anxious about this diagnosis and looking for more information about what I can do for my child.
Children with Hypotonia can make huge progress with early physical, occupational and occasionally speech therapy. Children with Hypotonia or low muscle tone have a large range in ability and an evaluation done by a physical therapist is the best way to determine your child’s needs. Early intervention enables your child to reach his or her full potential.
For more information look at the National Institute of Health’s webpage on Hypotonia.
To find a neuro-developmental (NDT) certified therapist in your area, contact us at 1.800.955.2445.
8. My baby was recently diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. I am anxious about this diagnosis and looking for more information about what I can do for my child.
f you haven’t done so already, investigate therapy for your baby. Children with Cerebral Palsy benefit greatly from physical, occupational, and speech therapy. An excellent starting place for support and medical information is United Cerebral Palsy. Their website, www.ucp.org, provides numerous resources and can help you locate a chapter near you. Pathways ‘dedicated parent line is another tool you can utilize; don’t hesitate to contact us with any concerns.
For more information and support visit United Cerebral Palsy's website.
To find a therapist certified in neuro-developmental therapy (NDT) or sensory integration and praxis test (SIPT), click here or contact us at 1.800.955.2445.
