SAUDI ADULT’S KNOWLEDGE OF PEDIATRIC DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES

Authors

  • Faisal O. AlQurashi , Renad A. AlSayari , Genan A. AlMajed , Sarah M. Bubshait , Reem A. Alateeq , Ghaida A. Assiry , Mohammad G. Alharbi , Faisal M. Alharthi, Abdullah S. Alsaedi , Wajd A. Alasmari , Khames T. Alzahrani Author

Abstract

Observing and recognizing early developmental milestones for potential delays or concerns is crucial for timely and appropriate interventions. Many studies have been conducted in Saudi Arabia to evaluate parental knowledge of developmental milestones, but none have investigated the general population’s knowledge of developmental milestones. We aimed to assess the awareness and knowledge levels of the adult population in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regarding developmental milestones. This cross-sectional study was conducted between July and December 2024, using a structured questionnaire to evaluate adult’s knowledge of developmental milestones. We found a strong recognition of gross motor skills in older children, but significant uncertainty regarding infant milestones. There was a decline in the knowledge of speech/language development of older children. Most participants identified key developmental traits for older children, and many relied on informal sources, such as family and friends, for information. Collectively, 31% of the participants demonstrated a high level of knowledge. We revealed significant gaps in awareness and knowledge of developmental milestones among the adult population in Saudi Arabia. Given the importance of early recognition of developmental delays for timely intervention, there is a clear need for targeted educational initiatives to enhance awareness and understanding of developmental milestones among adults.

Downloads

Published

2025-01-26

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

SAUDI ADULT’S KNOWLEDGE OF PEDIATRIC DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES. (2025). CAHIERS MAGELLANES-NS, 1177-1199. https://magellanes.com/index.php/CMN/article/view/1294