Examination of developmental parameters and oral motor development in infancy

Abstract

The first 3 years age, is called as infancy period, is a very important period for learning ability and basis for the skills concerning the developmental stages. Gross motor, fine motor, cognitive, social, language and oral motor development are examined as developmental parameters and occur according to a typical sequence, pattern and timing. Each stage of the motor developmental sequence has purpose and contribute to the overall development of the child. Reflexes are seen in the first stage of development and these reflexes are replaced by reactions over time. The motor developmental sequence offers a basis for understanding not only typical development, but also atypical development of the infant, this developmental sequence could be used as a basis for evaluating and treating motor delays and deficiencies in infants. Investigation of normal developmental milestones in infancy as a whole in terms of motor, cognitive, social, language and oral motor are important for early diagnosis and intervention of deviations from normal/typical development. Atypical development in one or more of these parameters is a sign of risk for other parameters. Therefore, the finding of atypical development seen in these parameters is critical in terms of evaluating the infant as a whole and referring it to the relevant health professional when necessary. The aim of this study is to describe the typical and atypical developmental milestones in the 0-3 years period and to provide a reference including developmental and oral motor functions together for physiotherapists working in pediatric rehabilitation field.