What parents should know
Understanding growth charts
Weight, length or height, head circumference in younger children and BMI where appropriate can be plotted over time. A clinician interprets the pattern alongside feeding, illness, birth history and family growth patterns.
Developmental milestones
Development includes movement, speech and language, learning, play and social interaction. Parents' observations are important. Assessment can clarify whether variation is expected or whether hearing, vision or developmental support should be considered.
- Movement and coordination
- Speech and communication
- Learning and play
- Social interaction and daily skills
Preparing for an assessment
Bring previous growth records, school or caregiver observations, and a list of skills or changes you have noticed. Videos from home can sometimes help illustrate a concern, but they do not replace examination.
Seek urgent medical care now if
- • Loss of a skill the child previously had
- • New weakness, seizures, altered awareness or difficulty breathing
- • Marked lethargy, dehydration or inability to feed
- • Any sudden developmental or behavioural change with acute illness
Do not wait for an online reply or routine clinic appointment when a child has emergency warning signs.
See all emergency red flagsThis information is for general parent education and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified medical professional. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department rather than waiting for a clinic or online appointment.