What are Adaptive Developmental Delays?

Adaptive developmental delays refer to conditions in which children have not reached age-appropriate life skills. It is important that children learn adaptive and self-help skills so they can live independent and productive lives as adolescents and adults.

Behavioral pediatricians typically divide adaptive development into the following categories:

Why are Adaptive and Self-Help Skills Important?

Adaptive skills are essential to independent living. Without age-appropriate adaptive development, children may have difficulty participating fully in school or even attending birthday parties and sleepovers. Self-help skills are often building blocks of the refined physical control needed to complete everyday tasks (such as opening lunch boxes or standing to pull up jeans). Adaptive and self-help skills form the foundation of childhood social, interactive, and life activities.

What are the Adaptive Developmental Milestones?

Although you should allow enough time and practice for children to learn adaptive behaviors, important general milestones to keep in mind include the following:

By Age 1:
Between Age 1 and 2:
Between Ages 2 and 3:
Between Ages 3 and 4:
Between Ages 4 and 5:
Between Ages 5 and 6:

What Causes Adaptive Developmental Delays?

Some children simply require more practice and learn on their own schedule later than others. However, an adaptive delay can also be the result of several causes:

How are Adaptive Developmental Delays Treated?

Professionals mostly treat adaptive developmental delays through behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and pediatric occupational therapy. Occupational therapists assess a child’s ability and use of self-help and play activities to teach the life skills (known as “occupations”) needed for independent living.  Treatment may also include sensory practice to help children learn to adapt to various environments. For more information, contact The Warren Center for information about adaptive development therapy.