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Development Topics
Understanding Your Child’s Physical Development
Comparing Physical Skills
Jenny was very concerned about her son’s development. He was 11 months old and not yet crawling. Her pediatrician told her not to worry because some babies skip crawling and move directly to walking. As Jenny watched her friends’ children crawl and even walk at 11 months she became discouraged.
She laid toys out of Josiah’s reach and called to him, but he wouldn’t even try. Jenny was beginning to feel resentment toward Josiah for not living up to her expectations. Josiah was also frustrated with his mom’s efforts and cried during their “practice sessions.”
Jenny is facing a struggle that many parents deal with: comparison. Although she knows she shouldn’t worry about Josiah, she can’t help comparing him to others. A good friend sensed Jenny’s struggle and reminded her of these important facts:
All children develop at their own rates.
Regular practice isn’t necessary for a skill to develop.
Other parents are as concerned for their children as Jenny is for Josiah.
Jenny should center her attention on what Josiah can do — and on his good traits.
Jenny took her friend’s advice to heart and remembered to focus on Josiah’s loving character, quick smile and easygoing temperament. Before she knew it, they were relating better and Jenny wasn’t as worried. Josiah never crawled but was walking by 14 months.
— Veola Vazquez
Last updated: May 2005
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