Detecting Early Motor Delays From Newborn to 6 Months

Detecting Early Motor Delays From Newborn to 6 Months is organized by Med-IQ.

Released: 6/3/2025
Expires: 6/2/2026

Abstract
Here are the key takeaways from this activity. Deeper insights and evidence, plus an opportunity to receive credit, are available.

• A simple way to assess atypical motor patterns includes observing the baby using a 30-second, 4-position exam. This involves observing the baby in the supine, horizontal suspension, pull to sit, and prone positions at newborn, 2-month, 4-month and 6-month.
• When atypical motor patterns are diagnosed early, there is the potential for early intervention, which can change the overall trajectory of development
• Pediatric care teams, including nurses, have an important role in coordinating and providing resources and support to parents and caregivers

Statement of Need:
Progression of new motor milestones is a key indicator of typical or atypical motor development, and delayed milestone onset may reflect a delay in physical and neurologic development. Pediatric primary care teams must continually observe development and screen for missed milestones. The American Academy of Pediatrics began recommending developmental screening in 2001 and expanded their guidelines in 2006 with an algorithm that included standardized developmental screening at 9-, 18-, and 30-month well-child visits or whenever a parent or clinician expresses concern. Despite these clinical guidelines, very little progress has been made in ensuring that children are monitored for atypical development and referred to early intervention services. Healthcare professionals who care for infants and young children need education on screening for atypical motor development and a greater understanding of the available resources to support families with children with atypical motor development.

Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants should be able to:

• Describe evidence- and guideline-based processes for atypical motor development screening during infancy
• Outline evidence for and appropriate timing of community services available to support families with children who have early signs of atypical development.