What are Social and Emotional Developmental Delays?

Social and emotional delays refer to conditions in which children have not reached expected interactive and perceptive milestones for their chronological age. These milestones include the social aspects of smiling, playing, and interacting with others as well as emotional necessities of expressing oneself and developing strong self-esteem. Social and emotional development typically begins at infancy with the bond between the child and caregiver, but it can also occur later in life (e.g. between a child and an adoptive parent).

How Common are Social and Emotional Developmental Delays?

Social and emotional developmental delays are common. Approximately 17 percent of children have some type of social or emotional delay. Alerting your pediatrician if you suspect this type of delay can pave the way for early childhood intervention (ECI) and related services (such as social skills training to help your child reach developmental milestones).

What are the Expected Social and Emotional Milestones?

Important social and emotional development takes place from birth to five years. Knowing what to look for is the first step to ensuring that your child progresses as expected.

The First Year:
The Toddler Years:
The Preschool Years

How Can a Child Receive Extra Help for Social and Emotional Development Delays?

If your child has not reached expected milestones, a pediatrician may recommend special services. Professionals that may specialize in social or emotional development include the following:

What is a Social Skills Group?

A social skills group gives children the chance to strengthen social and emotional development regularly. Children with these delays benefit from interacting with their peers in a safe setting while building confidence and self-esteem. Curricula for a social skills group may include the following:

Contact The Warren Center for additional information about placement into a social skills group.

How Can Parents Promote Social and Emotional Development?

The first step is to look for the social and emotional milestones. If you notice that your child has not developed these skills, lost previously acquired skills, or seems unusually withdrawn or oddly aggressive, it is advisable to request intervention. Other tips include the following: