Know the Warning Signs

Understand Motor Delays

When you know what to look for, the signs of a motor delay can be easy to spot.

Children with SMA show signs of the disease in their movements, or often lack of movement, and development. We’ve created a series of short videos to guide you through some of the hallmark symptoms, breaking down very clearly and visually what to look for and then, what to do if you notice that something’s not quite right.

Click here to see the warning signs.

Regression is a Red Flag

If your child suddenly develops any of these motor delays or seems to fall behind in reaching milestones, please contact your child’s pediatrician. Don’t delay. Take action right away.

• Regression: loss of the ability to do the thing he/she was previously able to do
• Rarely moves arms and legs (limited body movement)
• Seems excessively loose in the limbs, or floppy
• Poor head control

Trust Your Insticts

If you feel like something is not quite right with your baby or child’s developmental progress, do not wait to voice your concerns. According to the Academy of Pediatrics, the overwhelming majority of parental concerns are correct and accurate.

Follow your instincts and don’t delay if you suspect a motor delay.

I am concerned about my child’s symptoms — what can I do next?

• Talk to your child’s doctor. Developmental delays may be early signs of a serious medical condition. If you notice any loss in your child’s ability to do something she was able to do before or see any signs of motor delays, make an appointment with your child’s doctor immediately. Don’t delay.
  Early recognition and diagnosis could mean earlier access to life-saving treatment options for your child. Talk to your pediatrician about your concerns. Remember to trust your instincts. Be persistent with your questions.
• SMArt Move – Take this checklist with you to your child’s next doctor’s appointment to help guide your conversation and clearly articulate your concerns.
  • Download Checklist for Motor Delays (Infant 0 to 6 months)
  • Download Checklist for Motor Delays (6 months to 12 months)

Be Persistent

When it comes to your baby or child’s motor development, and getting any treatment should you need it, follow this rule of thumb: the earlier the better. Don’t give up in your pursuit of answers, around your concerns, until you have answers.

Time, especially with SMA, is of the essence. We know the earlier a child receives treatment, the better their outcomes. Early diagnosis and early treatment of SMA can mean the difference between life and death, between extremely limited function and significant health challenges and increased independence and improved mobility. Act now!

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