A nurse is caring for an 18-month-old male toddler in a pediatrician's office. Exhibits Click to highlight the findings that indicate this toddler may be experiencing a developmental delay. To deselect a finding, click on the finding again.

Fine Motor Skills Rotates utensils to bring them to their mouth ✅ Age-appropriate. At 2 years, children should be able to self-feed with utensils, though messy. Rotating utensils shows intentional use, which is a typical fine motor skill. ? Gross Motor Skills Walks independently ✅ Normal. Independent walking is typically achieved by 12–15 months. Scoots on bottom up and down stairs ⚠️ Potential delay. By age 2, toddlers typically attempt to walk up and down stairs with assistance or by holding onto rails. Scooting may suggest immature coordination or caution, although it can also reflect personality or lack of opportunity to practice. ?️ Language Skills Uses one-word sentences, says five words ⚠️ Likely delayed. By age 2, children typically say at least 50 words and begin combining two words (e.g., “more juice”). Using only five words and relying on one-word sentences may signal a language delay. ? Play/Social Skills Participates in parallel play with siblings ✅ Typical. Parallel play (playing near others without interaction) is developmentally appropriate for 2-year-olds. Does not notice when others are upset ⚠️ Possible social-emotional delay. By age 2, children start showing early empathy—comforting others or reacting to distress. Lack of awareness could indicate delay in emotional or social development. ? Physical Growth Height: 86.4 cm (34 in) ✅ Normal. Within expected growth range for a 2-year-old boy. Weight: 11.3 kg (24.9 lb) ✅ Normal. Also within expected percentiles for age. ?‍? External Concern Daycare teachers express concern ⚠️ Important indicator. Teachers observe children in peer settings and may detect delays not seen at home. Their concerns often reflect valid developmental differences. ? Summary The main red flags suggesting developmental delay: Limited expressive language (five words only). Lack of empathy or social awareness. Unusual gross motor strategy for stairs. External concerns from daycare providers.