I know of a baby boy his age is 18 months but he is not able to sit or walk Could you please discuss possible reasons for his delays in physical development?

Answer 1

There are many reasons that babies fail to develop on the "average" scale that is used to chart baby's milestones. Anything from lack of stimulation in his environment, to brain damage, to a progressive muscular-nervous system disease or birth defect. His parents should be seeing a specialist and certainly must be aware of the cause - but it may just be too painful to discuss with anyone outside the immediate family.

There is no polite way to ask "what is wrong with your baby?" Because while it is quite obvious he is not progressing near the "norm" of 18 month old babies - depending on the reason - he maybe doing all that he is able to do and be seen as just perfect the way he is, to his parents.

What you could ask, as a child care giver/babysitter; is if there is anything you can do to help. Again, depending on the cause, there maybe specialized exercises that have to be done on a daily basis - this is something done by physical therapists who also train family members to do them at home. The exercises are specific to the cause, so should only be practiced with the guidance of a professional.

If the family has been doing this with the baby, they may welcome the relief of having another person to help. Many parents with a differently - abled child feel very isolated and alone - your carefully worded offer would be a very kind gesture, even if it is turned down.