Author: ILADS in collaboration with Dr. Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP

The International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) is a nonprofit, international, multidisciplinary medical society dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme and other complex inflammatory diseases. With these educational blog posts from experts and members of our board, ILADS aims to promote awareness and understanding of health and wellness, especially as it relates to complex inflammatory diseases, so that we can all learn and grow together. If you have any questions or want more information, you can email us at contact@ilads.org. 

Disclaimer: Every patient is an individual with unique characteristics. This blog article is not medical advice. It does not constitute a physician-patient relationship. It is for educational purposes only. Do not try out what is in this article without medical advice, working with your licensed physician and licensed healthcare providers

Did you know that 1 in 6 children in the U.S. between the ages of 2 and 8 have behavioral or developmental disorders? So, what changes in child behavior should you be aware of? How can you spot the signs, and when should you start to worry? Understanding how child behavior evolves through developmental stages is crucial for knowing when to seek professional help. Every parent wants the best for their child, and addressing early developmental concerns can make a significant difference.

Early intervention is key for helping children reach their full potential, improve their abilities, and learn new skills. Neurodevelopmental disorders are often linked to developmental issues in the central nervous system.

Variations and delays can impact how the nervous system receives, processes, stores, or responds to stimuli. If you notice any signs of developmental delay, don’t hesitate to ask for a screening.

Identifying Signs of Abnormal Child Behavior

Children should reach specific developmental milestones at certain ages, such as sitting up by 6 months, and pointing and waving by 1 year. They should also be communicating through eye contact, gestures, and speech by this time.

Missing these milestones may mean that your child’s behavior and development are not normal. But what are developmentally appropriate milestones? They include talking, walking, interacting with other children and adults, and so on.

These behaviors typically develop within the first years of a child’s life. If your child isn’t picking up these behaviors as expected, it’s important to discuss your concerns with your pediatrician.

Your young child may also develop other atypical behaviors. They may be uncomfortable when interacting with others, especially strangers.

They may not like to look people in the eye or like to be touched. Another behavior change to look out for is obsessive or perseverative behaviors, often termed “stimming”. Some children develop habits such as rocking back and forth.

Others may bang their backs or heads against the wall. If you are seeing any of these behaviors, talk to your practitioner about neurodevelopmental issues. 

Identifying Signs of Neurodevelopmental Disorders 

Common neurodevelopmental disorders include autism, learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and others.

Signs to watch out for include:

• Failing to meet milestones such as crawling, sitting up, or holding things
• Not responding to outside stimuli
• Doesn’t reach, point, smile, or wave
• Doesn’t make eye contact, lacks eye control, or eyes appear crossed
• Cannot follow simple instructions
• Doesn’t imitate words or actions

All children are different, and neurodevelopmental issues do not always present in the same way. Most developmental disorders present in early childhood. 

Neurodevelopmental or Neuropsychiatric?

Sometimes your child develops neurotypically, but then regresses with a sudden onset of anxiety, OCD, or tics. If you notice that abruptly your child acts differently than other children, you may want to consider Basal Ganglia Encephalitis (BGE), also termed PANS and PANDAS. 

These disorders can also include the abrupt onset of restrictive or obsessive eating disorders. Somatic symptoms such as trouble with sleep or bedwetting that evolve dramatically and abruptly can also be seen.

Your child may be happy one moment and angry the next. If you are unsure if your child’s behavior is unusual, you can talk to a child behavior expert. An expert is much more familiar with the more nuanced signs of abnormal child behavior and can help get to the root of the problem. A qualified and compassionate practitioner can also help empower you to find the right tools to help your child.

Early Intervention and Its Benefits

Early intervention is crucial for any child who exhibits signs of neurodevelopmental delay or neurobehavioral issues. The first two years of a child’s life are critical for development as their nervous system tissue grows and matures. Early intervention works best when the family, doctor, caregivers, teachers, and members of the community work together. The treatment plan should be emphasized at home and at school.

The signs and symptoms of Neurodevelopmental Disorders vary. Treatment methods vary depending on the needs of the child. Some common intervention methods include:

• Speech and language therapy
• Occupational therapy to enhance fine motor skills for daily living
• Physical therapy to improve physical capabilities such as walking 
• Behavioral therapy to correct or minimize negative behaviors

During these early years, the brain is the most responsive to therapy and environmental stimuli. If you’re concerned about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to talk to your child’s doctor or schedule an appointment with an intervention specialist.

All About Child Behavior

Understanding basic child behavior is crucial to recognizing potential behavior needs in your child. While every child develops differently, early intervention is essential if you or your child’s healthcare provider notice developmental delays. It can significantly alter the developmental path of a child with neurodevelopmental disorders. Early intervention also helps families better meet their child’s needs from an early age.

Record any symptoms for which you are concerned and talk to a qualified therapist, psychologist, or physician about your concerns. Find someone who is willing to listen and help you help your child.

This blog was written in collaboration with Dr. Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP and https://www.drohara.com/ 
Listen to Dr. Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP speak at the 2024 ILADS Annual Conference in San Antonio on: “Microbes And Mental Health: How Lyme and Co-Infections Assault Our Children’s Health”