17 months old - Concerned.

[WorkalotmOm]

My son is a few days shy of 17 months old, and I'm concerned about his development ( As I'm sure many parents that are here, are. )

Currently, he is only doing the assisted walking ( Using the table/couch/other objects as a support system for balance. ) He says very few words ( Mama, Dada, Papa, and Bottle ) being the most used.  I know that many children that I've seen at his age are already walking, and sometimes running, at his age, and are busy speaking and identifying many objects, but my son has no interest in doing such things.  

A couple notes about his behavior. He's very calm - seldom does he cry or get very fussy. He laughs a lot, when we play with him, and is responsive to our play. A lot of the time, though, he prefers to just play with his toys on his own.

A couple notes on his father and I: There's no history of developmental or behavioral issues on my side of the family. On his father's though, he experiences issues with attention spans, and both him and his brother, while younger, had very dominate social anxieties. His father also has serious vision issues, though the exact extent of them I'm not sure.

Is this kind of behavior and development abnormal for a child his age?

[benjimom]

I work with a lady who said her grandson did not walk until 19 months.  If you are concerned talk to your pediatrician, there is probably a place where you can go and have him evaluated to see if he needs extra help.  Sounds to me like he is a very easygoing child and sometimes they aren't as pushed as more intense, active kids (like my son).  

[WorkalotmOm]

Thank you very much for your advice. I'll try not to worry. :)

[jdtm]

Your posting reminds me of our neighbour's son when he was a baby.  Today, he is active in sports and is employed as a teacher.  I agree with "mammo" - I wouldn't worry either.  Take care ...

[mammo]

All of this can change very quickly.  He sounds like a happy and content little guy.  Kids this age are all over the board with their development.  Take his hand and work with his walking, read to him and point to things and say what they are.  He will be taking it all in.  They understand far more than they can say at this age.  I wouldn't worry.  Take care.