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    Cerebral Palsy: Early Signs

    Cerebral Palsy: Early Signs



    Topic Overview

    Parents and caregivers are often the first to notice signs of Reference cerebral palsy Opens New Window in a child. Typically, parents suspect a problem when their baby does not reach developmental milestones at predictable times.

    Early signs of developmental delays possibly related to cerebral palsy
    Age Developmental delay

    3 months

    Baby does not:

    • Turn to a sudden noise or familiar voice.
    • Follow objects with his or her eyes.
    • Smile or show other facial expressions.

    5 months

    Baby does not:

    • Hold his or her head straight.
    • Lift his or her head up when pulled from a lying flat position to a sitting position.

    6 months

    By 6 months: Baby does not roll over.

    After 6 months: Baby pushes food out of his or her mouth with the tongue rather than accepting it, as most babies would at this age.

    8 months

    Baby does not sit without support.

    12 months

    Baby either does not crawl or crawls dragging one side of the body or both legs.

    Before 18 months

    Baby always prefers using one hand over the other.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference September 20, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
    Reference Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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