Developmental Delays: When Should You See a Neurologist?

By Dr. Tamara Zach MD — April 30, 2026

As a parent, watching your child grow and discover the world is one of life's greatest joys. But when your little one seems to be falling behind other children their age — not babbling, not walking, or struggling to communicate — it's natural to feel worried and uncertain about what to do next. Developmental delays are more common than many families realize, affecting approximately one in six children in the United States. The important question isn't whether to seek help, but when and where to turn.

At Rose Medical Pavilion in Phoenix, Dr. Tamara Zach MD works with families across Arizona to evaluate, diagnose, and support children who may be experiencing developmental delays. Understanding the signs and knowing when a pediatric neurologist should be part of your child's care team can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.

What Are Developmental Delays?

Developmental delays occur when a child does not reach expected milestones within the typical age range across one or more areas of development. These areas include:

• Speech and language — the ability to understand and use words
• Motor skills — both gross motor (walking, running) and fine motor (grasping, drawing)
• Cognitive development — problem-solving, memory, and learning
• Social and emotional development — interacting with others, expressing emotions
• Adaptive behavior — self-care skills like feeding and dressing

When a child shows delays in two or more of these areas simultaneously, it is referred to as global developmental delay. While a delay does not automatically indicate a serious condition, it is always worth a thorough evaluation — especially when early intervention can significantly improve a child's trajectory.

Common Red Flags Parents Should Know

Every child develops at their own pace, but certain signs warrant prompt attention. If your child is not meeting milestones, these are some of the key warning signs that pediatric neurologists and developmental specialists watch for:

In Infants (0–12 Months)

• Not smiling or making eye contact by 2 months
• Not babbling or cooing by 6 months
• Not sitting independently by 9 months
• Not responding to their name by 12 months
• Loss of previously acquired skills at any age

In Toddlers (1–3 Years)

• No single words by 16 months
• No two-word phrases by 24 months
• Not walking independently by 18 months
• Significant difficulty with social interaction or play
• Repetitive behaviors or unusual sensory responses

In Preschool-Age Children (3–5 Years)

• Difficulty following simple instructions
• Poor balance or persistent clumsiness
• Minimal interest in other children or play
• Significant tantrums or emotional dysregulation beyond what is typical

It's also worth noting that Arizona's extreme summer heat can limit outdoor playtime and physical development opportunities for very young children, sometimes making motor delays harder for parents to spot early. Whether your child spends summers indoors or in structured childcare, staying attentive to developmental milestones year-round is essential.

When Should You See a Pediatric Neurologist?

Your child's pediatrician is typically your first call, and that's exactly the right starting point. However, there are situations where seeing a developmental delays neurologist in Phoenix — specifically a pediatric neurologist — adds critical expertise that a general practitioner may not be able to provide.

Dr. Tamara Zach MD recommends a neurological evaluation when:

1. Your child has lost previously acquired skills (regression is always a neurological red flag)
2. Your pediatrician has identified concerns across multiple developmental domains
3. There is a family history of neurological conditions, genetic disorders, or autism spectrum disorder
4. Your child experienced complications at birth, prematurity, or a brain injury
5. Your child has had seizures or unusual episodes of staring or unresponsiveness
6. Evaluation by a therapist or early intervention program has suggested a neurological component
7. You simply feel something is wrong and want a thorough, specialist-level assessment

Parent instinct is clinically valuable. Families who come to Rose Medical Pavilion concerned that their child is not meeting milestones in Arizona often arrive having already sensed something for months. That intuition matters, and it deserves to be taken seriously.

What to Expect During a Neurological Evaluation

A pediatric neurology appointment is not something to fear. Dr. Zach conducts thorough, child-friendly evaluations designed to put both children and parents at ease. A typical initial visit includes a detailed developmental history, review of previous medical records and any therapy notes, a neurological examination, and a conversation about next steps.

Depending on the findings, Dr. Zach may recommend additional testing such as an MRI, EEG, genetic testing, or metabolic labs. She may also coordinate care with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, or developmental pediatricians to ensure your child receives a comprehensive support plan.

Arizona Resources for Families

Families in Arizona have access to several important support systems that can complement neurological care:

Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP)

For children under age 3, the Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) provides free developmental evaluations and services for eligible children. If your child qualifies, AzEIP can coordinate speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other supports — often in your home. Dr. Zach's office can help families navigate the referral process.

AHCCCS and Insurance Coverage

Many families in Arizona use AHCCCS (Arizona's Medicaid program) for their children's healthcare. Pediatric neurology evaluations and follow-up care are generally covered under AHCCCS plans, making specialized care accessible to a broad range of families across the Phoenix metro area and beyond.

School-Based Services

Children ages 3 and older may qualify for developmental services through their local school district under an Individualized Education Program (IEP). A neurological diagnosis from Dr. Zach can be an important part of supporting an IEP application.

Early Intervention Changes Outcomes

The research is clear: the earlier a developmental delay is identified and addressed, the better the long-term outcomes for children. The developing brain has remarkable plasticity — particularly in the first five years of life — meaning that targeted therapies and support during this window can have a lasting, positive impact on a child's abilities, independence, and quality of life.

If you've been wondering whether it's time to see a neurologist for your child's developmental concerns, the answer is almost always: don't wait. There is no such thing as seeking help too early.

Schedule an Appointment at Rose Medical Pavilion

If your child is not meeting milestones, or if you have concerns about their neurological development, the team at Rose Medical Pavilion is here to help. Dr. Tamara Zach MD brings specialized pediatric neurology expertise to families throughout the Phoenix area and across Arizona. A thorough evaluation is the first step toward answers — and toward getting your child the support they deserve.

Contact Rose Medical Pavilion today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zach. Early evaluation, compassionate care, and a clear path forward are waiting for your family.