Speech Developmental Milestones: Birth to 18 Months

If you're worried whether your child is meeting key developmental milestones, our speech therapists are here to help. Evaluations and services are covered by most insurance providers.

Even if you have just one of the concerns on this list, an evaluation can help!

Contact us to learn more about our services and determine whether 1:1 support is needed to facilitate your child's growth and development.

Request an Appointment

Birth to 3 Months

Does not turn to or pay attention to sounds
Does not coo or make sounds like ooooo, aahh, and mmmmm

4-6 Months

Does not giggle or laugh
Does not look at or follow objects with their eyes
Does not vocalize during play or with objects in mouth

7-9 Months

Does not respond when you call their name
Makes no gestures or only a few gestures, like reaching, waving, or pointing
Does not recognize names of some people and objects

10-12 Months

Does not respond to simple words and phrases
Does not say one or two word phrases (e.g. mama, dada, hi, bye)
Does not point, wave, show, or give objects
Does not imitate or initiate gestures for engaging in social interactions and playing games

13-18 Months

Does not follow directions (e.g. give me the ball, show me your nose)
Does not shake head for "no" or nod head for "yes"
Cannot identify one or more body parts
Does not point to make requests, comment, or get information
Does not use a combination of long strings of sounds, syllables, and real words
Does not use or understand at least 50 words

Occupational Therapy Developmental Milestones: Birth to 18 Months

If you're worried whether your child is meeting key developmental milestones, our occupational therapists are here to help. Evaluations and services are covered by most insurance providers.

Even if you have just one of the concerns on this list, an evaluation can help!

Contact us to learn more about our services and determine whether 1:1 support is needed to facilitate your child's growth and development.

Request an Appointment

4-5 Months

Becomes very upset when moved and is frequently irritable for no reason
Hands remain closed or fisted most of the time
Does not reach for objects
Does not follow an object with their eyes

6-7 Months

Does not support self on forearms with head in midline
Does not bring hands or objects to mouth
Does not have good head control

8-10 Months

Does not transfer an object from one hand to another
Does not actively grasp large objects or finger foods when placed in front of them
Is not beginning to pick up small objects
Is not beginning to show finger isolation
Is excessively upset about being moved, dressed, changed, or bathed

12-14 Months

Is not interested in age-appropriate toys
Is excessively upset by loud noises
Is not able to pick up small objects, such as a cheerio, with the tip of the thumb and tip of the index finger
Is not able to voluntarily release an object from hand

15-18 Months

Is unable to complete a simple shape puzzle
Is unable to stack 2-4 blocks
Is unable to identify and point to body parts
Does not engage in pretend play

How are my child's speech therapy needs assessed?

The initial step towards effective speech-language therapy is a thorough, personalized evaluation of speech and cognitive-linguistic capabilities. This assessment is carried out by a licensed speech-language pathologist. The selection of assessment techniques hinges on the individual's age and the specifics of their disorder.

The evaluation process encompasses an in-depth interview with the parent or client to gather information on birth, developmental milestones, and medical history. This is supplemented by clinical observations, leveraging both standardized and non-standardized testing instruments.

Typically, evaluations span between 1 to 4 hours. Once testing concludes, a diagnosis is determined and a detailed report is compiled. The assessment findings are then shared with the individual and/or their guardians, as well as the referring physician. Together, the patient and therapist then craft an Individualized Plan of Care.

What are the goals of speech-language therapy?

The aim of pediatric and school-age speech therapy is to equip children with oral, written, and practical abilities, allowing them to convey their desires, necessities, and ideas, and to achieve academic success.

For the youngest children, therapy often involves training parents and providing language-enhancing activities to foster and bolster child growth.

Our speech therapy solutions tackle behaviors and other challenges that might hinder learning, ensuring that each child reaps the maximum benefits from therapy. Given their comprehensive training and experience, our speech and language pathology professionals are adept at addressing the distinct challenges faced by all children, including those on the autism spectrum.

Does insurance cover speech therapy?

In many cases, yes! We are in network with most major insurance providers. Our team will perform a complimentary insurance benefits check for you prior to starting services. This will help determine coverage details, and any co-pays or deductibles that may apply.

What qualifications and training do speech-language pathologists have?

Speech-language pathologists are qualified experts with master's degrees in speech-language pathology and the necessary licensure to practice. Their comprehensive training equips them to assess and address a range of communication disorders. Their expertise encompasses the anatomy of speech, linguistics, and specialized therapeutic methods tailored to speech and language progression.

How are my child’s occupational therapy needs assessed?

Our process begins with a comprehensive evaluation that assesses your child’s motor skills, sensory processing, self-care abilities, and overall developmental needs. We work with both you and your child to understand any specific challenges and goals, tailoring our approach to meet their unique needs.
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The evaluation process encompasses an in-depth interview with the parent or client to gather information on birth, developmental milestones, and medical history. This is supplemented by clinical observations, leveraging both standardized and non-standardized testing instruments.

Typically, evaluations span between 1 to 4 hours. Once testing concludes, a diagnosis is determined and a detailed report is compiled. The assessment findings are then shared with the individual and/or their guardians, as well as the referring physician. Together, the patient and therapist then craft an Individualized Plan of Care.

What are the goals of pediatric occupational therapy?

The goal of pediatric occupational therapy is to empower children with the practical skills they need for independence, daily routines, and social interactions, whether at home, school, or during play.

For younger children, therapy often focuses on equipping parents with techniques to support motor and sensory development in the home environment. Our occupational therapy solutions address challenges that may impact physical, sensory, and emotional growth, ensuring each child makes meaningful progress.

With extensive training and experience, our occupational therapists are skilled in addressing the unique needs of all children, including those on the autism spectrum.

Does insurance cover occupational therapy?

What qualifications and training do occupational therapists have?

Our pediatric occupational therapists hold advanced degrees in occupational therapy and are licensed and certified to practice in Illinois. They have specialized training in pediatric care and continue to advance their knowledge with ongoing education to provide the highest quality care for your child.

Are Early Intervention Services at North Shore Pediatric Therapy affiliated with the Illinois Early Intervention Program?

Our early intervention services are offered independently, with no affiliation with the Illinois Early Intervention Program. However, our therapists have deep experience working with children of all ages, especially those 3 years old and younger. Our private practice provides a range of therapies, including speech, occupational, physical, mental health, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and autism or comprehensive neuropsychological testing, tailored to meet the unique needs of each child.

While both programs aim to support children's development, there are a few important differences. You should make the most appropriate and reasonable decision for your family and child’s current situation.

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That's us!

Illinois Early Intervention

How quickly are services available?

We can start therapy right away during the morning and early afternoon times (8 AM – 3 PM) with no wait lists at almost all North Shore Pediatric Therapy locations.

Depending on your geography, there could be longer waiting lists for evaluations and starting EI services.

Who qualifies for services?

Open to all children, and therapies are personalized based on your child’s needs. For insurance reimbursement, some clients may require a referral and diagnosis, which we’ll work with you to

Children may not always qualify for EI services if they are not determined to have a developmental delay of 30% or more in certain areas of development.

If autism is suspected, who can diagnose this?

We have an in-house neuropsychology team dedicated to providing convenient autism assessments to families who suspect or have been referred to for autism testing. A formal diagnosis can open paths to additional therapies, support, and accommodations for a child. Like other therapies, testing is usually covered by insurance.

EI does not provide formal autism diagnoses. EI focuses on developmental assessments and providing therapy services to support areas of delay. If a formal autism diagnosis is needed, families are typically referred to a specialist, such as a neuropsychologist or developmental pediatrician, outside of the EI system.

What is the cost of services?

The cost of services depends on your insurance plan, just like a visit to any other medical specialist.

Your plan’s deductible (how much you need to pay on your own before insurance begins covering services), copays (a daily or per service fee that some insurances charge), and coinsurance (how much of the ongoing costs are covered after meeting your deductible) all impact the cost of therapy.

EI evaluations and coordination of services are free, but therapy services are not. EI sets a family participation fee based on your family’s income, size, and any significant out-of-pocket medical expenses. In many cases, if your child is covered under a private insurance plan, you are required to use your insurance benefits to help cover the costs of EI services.

Where does therapy happen?

Therapy happens in a center with gyms, play spaces, tools, and special equipment to help your child.

A center environment means that therapists with different specialties can collaborate on the same case and can provide socialization opportunities with other clients during

EI therapists come to your home or work with your child in community settings, which can be very convenient for families.

How long do services last?

Therapy can continue as long as your child needs it, even beyond age 3. You have more control over how long your child receives services, including transitioning from one service to another depending on your child’s unique needs.

Services are reviewed regularly and continue only if your child still qualifies. Services end when your child turns 3, with support to transition to school programs.

Getting to Our Lincolnwood Center from Skokie, IL

7250 N Cicero Ave

Lincolnwood, IL 60712

Our clinic is conveniently located in the heart of Lincolnwood. The clinic is easily accessible right off the expressway and near the train station.

Who We Serve

Our interdisciplinary services in Lincolnwood include ABA Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy, helping children develop essential social, adaptive living, and leisure skills. Our Lincolnwood ABA Therapy & Pediatric Therapy center proudly serves families in Lincolnwood and surrounding areas, including Skokie, Evanston, Niles, Rogers Park, West Ridge, and Sauganash.

Hours of Operation

Monday to Friday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Families, in their words

What families say

“

NSPT has taken care of two of our kids and the growth we’ve seen through the guidance of all the BT’s and all of the wonderful staff, has made a tremendous impact on our little family’s lives. Led by the amazing Leanne holding down the fort up front and all of the all of the amazing BCBA’s, our two little ones have grown into more than just their autism diagnosis and into the little independent powerhouses that now only drive us crazy most of the time. Thank you to everyone involved in our kids lives.

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— A local family

“

We love North Shore Pediatric Therapy! We love Marissa our OT! She’s fantastic and really tailors her approach to the kiddo she is working with! We’ve made some great progress with her this past year!

★★★★★

“

We love NSPT! The best staff works at the Lincolnwood location. We love spending time there!

★★★★★

“

We’ve had a great experience with NSPT! Our daughter looks forward to going to OT every week and loves working with Lindsay.

★★★★★

Contact us to get started

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Submit an inquiry form
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One of our dedicated team members will connect with you to discuss services, your insurance benefits, and your family’s needs.
3
Paperwork & insurance
We'll review and confirm your insurance benefits, and we'll work with you to gather additional paperwork required.
4
Treatment personalization
We'll schedule an assessment date for your child with one of our clinicians. This assessment will serve as the basis for your child’s personalized treatment plan. After, we'll meet to discuss recommendations and your child’s treatment plan and start date.
5
Start making progress!
We will greet and welcome your child to our warm and supportive environment where our staff will provide 1-on-1 care to meet our treatment goals.

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Do you have a confirmed diagnosis of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) or developmental delay from a physician?*

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We'll contact you within one business day, but usually within a few hours. Please keep an eye out for a phone number with a 224 or 847 area code, as that will be one of our friendly client experience specialists calling you.

Our commitment to you and your child:

‍For our clients, treatment hours are determined on an individualized basis, without predefined blocks.
Our BCBAs weigh the priorities of the family, the availability of the child given other therapeutic services they may be receiving, and the level of support needed to facilitate the best outcomes.
All of our treatment plans have terminal goals that are reported every 6 months and discussed every 3 months directly with the family, to ensure we are always moving towards fading the level of support needed and increasing daily independence.

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North Shore Pediatric Therapy provides compassionate, neuroaffirming care for children and families. Our expert team offers autism testing, ABA therapy, speech, occupational, and physical therapy. For over 25 years, we’ve partnered with families to help every child grow, learn, and thrive.

Services at North Shore Pediatric Therapy and Gracent Pediatric Therapy centers are provided by affiliated professional corporations.

ABA services are provided by North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Ltd.
Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapy services are provided by Pediatric Therapies, Ltd.
Neuropsychological services are provided by Chicago Neuropsychological Institute

SMS Terms

Skokie, IL ABA Therapy for Autism & Pediatric Therapies

Personalized Therapy for Families of Skokie, IL

Personalized Therapy for Families of Skokie, IL

Personalized Therapy for Families of Skokie, IL

Speech Developmental Milestones: Birth to 18 Months

Occupational Therapy Developmental Milestones: Birth to 18 Months

Personalized Therapy for Families of Skokie, IL

How are my child's speech therapy needs assessed?

What are the goals of speech-language therapy?

Does insurance cover speech therapy?

What qualifications and training do speech-language pathologists have?

How are my child’s occupational therapy needs assessed?

What are the goals of pediatric occupational therapy?

Does insurance cover occupational therapy?

What qualifications and training do occupational therapists have?

Are Early Intervention Services at North Shore Pediatric Therapy affiliated with the Illinois Early Intervention Program?

Illinois Early Intervention

Getting to Our Lincolnwood Center from Skokie, IL

Who We Serve

Hours of Operation

Getting to Our Lincolnwood Center from Skokie, IL

What families say

Contact us to get started

Submit an inquiry form

We'll reach out to you!

Paperwork & insurance

Treatment personalization

Start making progress!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Our Company

Therapy Services

NSPT Locations