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.
Help Me Grow
Supporting first-time parents with home visiting services for children up to 3 years old. Services are free for eligible families.
Canton, OH 44709
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)
- 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
Canton, OH 44703
Stark County Early Intervention
Louisville, OH 44641
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.
- Child care assistance & developmental disabilities
- Developmental disabilities service eligibility
- Developmental disabilities & mental health
- Major Unusual Incidents (MUIs)
- Medicaid waivers & paying for services
- National developmental disabilities organizations
- Support for children with developmental disabilities
- Your role as a parent/caregiver