`FIRST STEPS' GIVES SOME DEVELOPMENTAL CLUES

                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, January 12, 1992                   TAG: 9201100177
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-2   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: Karen Brown
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short
`FIRST STEPS' GIVES SOME DEVELOPMENTAL CLUES
Because developmental problems are not always detected by a baby's doctor, it is important for parents to be aware of how their children are developing and what skills they should have for their age.
Jeanne McCann of the Virginia Department of Mental Health in Richmond said parents should "trust their instincts" if they suspect a problem with their infant or toddler. A chart of babies' typical developmental milestones can serve as a guideline for parents.
Both McCann and Debra Billings of Project Step in Radford recommend the brochure "First Steps." It provides a list of things that babies are usually able to do at different ages ranging from birth to 36 months. Here is a sample:
\ Newborn to 3 months: Does your baby lift his or her head and chest when lying on the stomach?
\ Three to 6 months: Does your baby turn his or her head toward sounds like your voice, the radio or the TV?
\ 6 to 9 months: Is the baby beginning to play peek-a-boo or wave bye-bye after seeing you do it?
\ Nine to 12 months: Does your baby pick up small things (like a raisin or Cheerio) by using the thumb and one finger?
\ Twelve to 15 months: Does can he or she walk unassisted?
The "First Steps" brochure is free. Call (800) 234-1448 to ask for a copy.

by Archana Subramaniam by CNB