Trust me on this one. Your village auntie means well. but some of her advice may not help much when you first receive a diagnosis.
For her, it seems normal to share stories about Uncle So-and-So, who started walking at age 7.
A cousin who did not speak or start school until age six, but is now doing well.
using this as a reason to suggest you wait and let things sort themselves out. Is not only ill informed but can also hold back your child’s progress.
And before you even decide what to do. She suggests that, in her time, they believed that the child would grow out of it.
This advice might seem harmless, but it can affect your child’s future for many years, especially after a diagnosis.
Many studies show that children who get help in a specific area are more likely to do better. That’s why doing something about it sooner matters, especially for children with developmental delays.
Going to professionals doesn’t mean you are disrespecting your elders. It simply shows how much you care about your child.
In our African culture, we often look to our elders for advice, and that is important. However, in some situations, we should also trust healthcare professionals to do what they do best and guide us, especially in matters like this.
Please remember that seeking professional guidance doesn’t mean you’re disrespecting elders; it means you care deeply about your child.
