It’s hard to believe I have an 18 month old. I haven’t written much about motherhood for a while, but I am hoping to write a bit more on this part of life. The topic that has been on my heart and mind recently is milestones. The majority of infants tend to reach developmental milestones by a certain age such as rolling over, sitting up by themselves, crawling, standing, walking etc. My not-so-little one has been delayed in all of his and hasn’t quite reached others that he should have by now. And that’s OK. It can be hard to say that it’s OK when I know a lot of his peers and many who are younger than him who are reaching them on time or early. And that’s OK too. It’s wonderful that children are all so brilliantly different and beautiful.
I felt like writing about this because I am sure there are some mama’s out there who are in the same situation that we are in. Whatever the reason for the delay, it can sometimes be a little challenging seeing other children doing this and that independently. We may be worried about why they are behind and sometimes seeing other mum’s and toddlers are can be a reminder that our child isn’t quite there yet. As a mum, I start to question is it something that I have or haven’t done and the answer is – no! He is developing at his own rate.
To the mama’s who are anxious about their little ones, you are not alone! I’d love to encourage your heart today. Our children are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The milestones are only a part of their story. They bring their own uniqueness to life which brings joy and worry – it’s all part of the fun of parenting as we discover more about who they are.
If you need some reassurance or think your child might need a little bit of support, don’t be afraid to seek out help. Our son is under the care of the physio at the moment and we will take each day at a time to whatever help he may need.
Try not to compare your child with others (we all do it and I am preaching to myself here) because it will distract you from that little person you created and all of what makes them, them.
You are doing a great job mama! Whether your baby or toddler has reached every milestone or not, you are nurturing them and caring for them every day – your love is giving them a foundation for life. Each child is a gift from God (Psalm 127:3). Enjoy every moment with them.
An Anchored Hope 
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