Developmental markers to look for

Children develop in their own unique ways, and how a child responds to and interacts with the world around them gives clues to their developmental progress. When a child doesn’t meet development milestones in a range typical of their peers, it may indicate a difference in their growth. Find resources in Stark County to contact if you think your child is showing signs of a cognitive or physical disability.

Early intervention

For concerns during a child’s early development, reach out to Stark County’s Early Intervention program. Up to 55 hours of services are provided annually at no cost to eligible families.

Early Childhood Resource Center (ECRC)

The Early Childhood Resource Center (ECRC) promotes healthy development through family strengthening and early education resources:
  • Child care information and referrals
  • Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids (SPARK) kindergarten readiness program
  • Professional development resources for educators
  • Home and group-based learning opportunities
  • Developmental screenings and community resource connections
Find a list of child care programs in Stark County here. 
1718 Cleveland Ave. NW
Canton, OH 44703
Phone: (330) 491-3272
Phone: 1-877-691-8521
Hide HoursShow Hours
Mon.
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Tue.
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Wed.
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Thu.
8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Fri.
8:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Stark County Early Intervention

Providing support and services to children under the age of 3 who have or are at risk of having developmental delays.
Eastgate Early Childhood and Family Center, 2121 Ashland St.
Louisville, OH 44641
Phone: (330) 479-3448
Referrals: 1 (800) 755-4769
Referrals: 1 (800) 755-4769
Common developmental markers

Two months

At two months, infants typically start to smile, coo and pay attention to faces. They may begin following sounds and seeing things at a distance.

Four months

Four-month-olds like to play and stay occupied. At this age, they often copy movements, sounds and expressions, and can hold up their own heads without support.

Six months

After six months, babies can often recognize familiar faces, show curiosity, roll over on their own and make sounds to express their feelings.

Nine months

At the nine-month mark, children may be clingy and afraid of strangers. They can often string together syllables and move objects from one hand to another.

One year

By their first birthdays, children may be seeking attention, responding with simple gestures and words and exploring new actions.

18 months

At 18 months, children typically begin throwing temper tantrums, playing pretend and identifying everyday items.

2 years

When a child turns two, you can expect them to show more independence, put together simple sentences and know the names of familiar people, places and things.

3 years

It is typical for 3-year-olds to climb, run, copy behaviors and show a wide range of emotions. They may also be able to carry on conversations and follow instructions.

4 years

Children can typically name some colors and numbers and understand time by the age of 4. They can also start to use scissors and pour liquids with some supervision.

5 years

At age 5, children often want to spend time with their friends and can tell simple stories using full sentences. They can also count and print some letters and numbers.