Global development delay affects how children develop, meaning they reach certain milestones slower than their peers. Unfortunately, misunderstandings about this condition are all too common, which can create stigmas and make it harder for families to find support and treatment. 

Let’s break down some of these myths, and separate them from the facts:

Myth: “Some children are just late bloomers, they will catch up eventually”

Fact: While some children with GDD will catch up with their peers over time, others may continue to struggle later into life and develop a learning disability . Early diagnosis and support is crucial for giving the person their best quality of life into the future.

Myth: “They just need to try harder”

Fact: It’s not about effort, GDD is linked to brain development, which can affect everything from motor skills to speech. The right supports, such as speech therapy or physiotherapy, can help the person develop the areas they are falling behind in.

Myth: “Global Development Delay is caused by bad parenting”

Fact: Global Development Delay is a complex condition that can be caused by a large range of factors, such as genetics, birth complications, and the child’s environment. The exact cause is different for everyone. It is not caused by parenting style.

Myth: “They are just a bit behind, it’s not anything to concern yourself over”

Fact: Having GDD means you are significantly behind in at least two major areas of development across talking, moving, socialising, and learning. Ignoring the issue won’t make it go away, it’s best to tackle the problem head-on by seeking the right support as early as possible.

Challenging myths wherever we find them is important to create a more inclusive and understanding world for people with a learning disability. Every child deserves to be celebrated for their individuality, not when they hit milestones. For more information about Global Development Delay visit our GDD page.