
Mr Smith, Herts







Developmental disorders that affect social and communication skills can be a challenge at any age. But with babies and infants, it is often very difficult to predict how much a disorder such as autism will develop without specialist knowledge.
Babies and infants who are at risk are those who don’t have a diagnosis but whose parents and professionals have suspicions there may be something not quite right. They may have a sibling who has autism or a developmental delay and, if that’s the case, there is a significant statistic that the younger sibling will develop it or one of its umbrella disorders. Signs are ‘good baby’ syndrome (i.e. a baby who is always so good no one knows it’s around), or a baby who is constantly unhappy. Other indicators include being a picky eater or struggling to develop normal sleep patterns. The infant may lack social initiation (such as eye contact), may hate to be put down or, conversely, may hate physical contact.
That is where Verbal Behaviour Consultants can help. At VBC, we understand the difficulties, challenges and concerns that parents of very young children face when their child doesn’t seem to be developing ‘normally’. With our help, we can help the family to pinpoint exactly what the problem is and the best course of intervention to help the child reach their potential. The early learning years are vitally important, as this is when learning patterns are developed. Understanding facial expressions, basic primary communication and an awareness of their surroundings is essential to stimulate the brain into developing effective communication skills.
Often, it is very difficult for new parents to recognise the symptoms of specific developmental disorders in new-born babies and infants. But that natural parental instinct may tell you that something ‘isn’t quite right’. It is at that point that you need expert guidance and help from experienced professionals who have worked in this area. At VBC, our trained behaviour analysts and psychologists have that experience, and understand that it’s not just the child that needs help and support, but the families also need to be an integral part of the process. Our team works closely with you every step of the way, so that you can gain a greater understanding of the challenges your child may face in the future, and how best to develop skills to overcome these challenges and to achieve maximum potential.
If you would like further details on how VBC can help in the early years and to support you and your child through those critical learning stages, contact us now in confidence, or browse our website for more information.