I feel that our child is not developing physically according to the chart

If you feel that your child is not developing as described in developmental milestone charts, keep in mind that every child is unique. Each child develops at their own pace.

A premature baby will not develop in the same way as a full-term baby. Initially, a premature baby needs all its energy to grow. Its organs are not yet fully functional, so its development is delayed compared to its full-term peers.

For this reason, the concept of corrected age is used for prematurely born children. Corrected age refers to the age the child would be if they were born at full term. For example, if your child was born a month early, you "don't count" that first month. What a full-term baby would learn by three months, your prematurely born baby will achieve by four months. This correction of age is typically used until the child is around 2 to 3 years old, by which time most preterm children have caught up with their peers.

If you notice any deviation in your child's development, it is always better to consult a specialist as soon as possible. First, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician. Pediatrics as a field focuses on preventive care and the active identification of potential health issues. The pediatrician may refer you to a physiotherapist or another specialist if needed.

However, if the pediatrician says everything is fine but you still feel something is not right, do not hesitate to arrange a consultation with a physiotherapist specializing in psychomotor development. As a parent, you see your child every day and know them best. Trust your instincts. Pediatricians have an incredibly broad scope of knowledge — they must be familiar with psychomotor development, skin conditions, digestive issues, and a wide range of diseases.

A physiotherapist specializing in psychomotor development focuses on child development every day. If the physiotherapist also says that everything is fine, you can be at ease.

Additionally, the physiotherapist can provide you with advice on how to lift, carry, or play with your child in ways that support their psychomotor development. If necessary, the physiotherapist may recommend specialized therapies such as the Vojta method or the Bobath concept to support your child's development.