What counts as regression?
Regression is the loss of a skill a child once used reliably: words they used to say, waving or pointing, eye contact, interest in people, purposeful hand use, toilet training, walking or school skills. It is different from a plateau, where a child keeps their skills but stops gaining new ones.
Short setbacks during an illness, a new sibling or a move can be normal, and the skills usually return within weeks. Loss that persists, or keeps going, needs assessment.
What causes developmental regression?
In toddlers, the most common cause is autism, where some children lose words and social interest, often between 15 and 24 months. Other causes include epilepsy, including seizures that mainly happen during sleep and affect language, hearing loss, Rett syndrome in girls, and genetic or metabolic conditions that affect the brain over time.
Because some of these causes are treatable, and some progress if missed, the aim is to find the cause rather than wait and watch.
How is regression assessed?
The history maps exactly which skills were lost, when, how quickly, and whether anything else happened at the time, such as an illness, seizures or a change in sleep. This is followed by a developmental and neurological examination.
Depending on the findings, tests may include a hearing assessment, an EEG that often needs to include sleep, an MRI scan, and blood or urine tests for genetic and metabolic causes. Each test is chosen for a reason that is explained first.
Videos from before the change
Look back through your phone for videos of your child before the change: talking, playing, walking or using their hands. Comparing those with how your child is now shows the regression clearly and helps date when it started.
Keep recording any new episodes or unusual movements as well, since they can point towards a cause.
Video from Dr. Akanksha Bansal
Frequently asked questions
How quickly should my child be seen?
Book an assessment promptly, within days rather than months. If the loss is rapid, or comes with seizures, unsteadiness, loss of walking, changes in vision or unusual sleepiness, seek a same-day medical review.
Is regression always autism?
No. Autism is the most common cause in toddlers who lose words and social interest, but epilepsy, hearing loss and genetic or metabolic conditions can look similar early on. The assessment checks for these before any diagnosis is given.
Will my child get the lost skills back?
It depends on the cause. Many children regain skills with therapy and, where possible, treatment of the underlying condition. Starting early gives the best chance, which is why prompt assessment matters.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Bring videos from before and after the change, a timeline of which skills were lost and when, earlier reports and test results, the vaccination record, and any notes from nursery, school or therapists.
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Book an appointment
Consultations are by appointment at Huda, Sushant Lok 2, Sector 55, Gurugram. Tell us what is worrying you and the clinic will call you back.