“Wait and See”: What Does This Really Mean?
Many parents are told, “Let’s wait and see,” when they share concerns about their child’s development. It may come from a pediatrician, teacher, family member, or even well-meaning friends. While often intended to reassure, this phrase can leave parents feeling uncertain about what to do next. In this post, we discuss what “wait and see” means, and when it is helpful to wait.
Why “Wait and See” Is Often Suggested
Early childhood development varies widely. Some children develop language, social skills, or motor abilities earlier than peers, while others take more time. In many cases, professionals suggest monitoring development because:
Skills are emerging but not yet consistent
Differences fall within a broad range of typical development
A child is making progress, even if slowly
Context matters (environment, exposure, temperament, culture)
In these situations, waiting does not mean ignoring concerns; it means observing thoughtfully.
When “Wait and See” Can Feel Hard for Parents
For parents, waiting often comes with questions:
What should I be watching for?
How long is “waiting”?
What if I miss something important?
Should I be doing something in the meantime?
These questions are valid. Waiting without guidance can feel stressful, especially when parents sense something isn’t quite lining up.
What “Wait and See” Should Include
A helpful wait-and-see approach is not passive. It should include:
Clear markers for what to monitor over time
Specific timeframes for follow-up
Opportunities to check in if concerns increase
Supportive guidance on how to encourage development at home
Without these elements, families may feel stuck rather than supported.
When Clarity may be Helpful
You may want additional guidance if:
Concerns persist across multiple areas of development
Skills appear inconsistent or plateau over time
Communication, social engagement, or regulation feels especially challenging
You’re receiving mixed messages from different professionals
Waiting feels more stressful than reassuring
Seeking clarity does not mean assuming something is wrong; it means gathering information to gain a deeper understanding.
Support Without Rushing to Conclusions
Support may come in a variety of ways:
Parent consultation to talk through observations and questions
Developmental or diagnostic evaluation to better understand patterns
Guidance on school supports or monitoring plans
Help decide whether continued observation or further assessment is appropriate
The goal is not urgency, it’s understanding.
Trust Yourself and Your Intuition
Parents know their children best. Asking questions, noticing patterns, and seeking guidance are all signs of thoughtful advocacy, not worry or overreaction. We support families at various stages of parenting. Whether you are actively monitoring development or seeking more clarity, support should feel steady, respectful, and collaborative.
If You’re Unsure What Comes Next
If “wait and see” doesn’t feel right, or you are ready for a discussion, ARC offers parent consultations designed to help you voice and understand your concerns and explore next steps at your own pace. Sometimes the most helpful step is simply talking things through. We are here for you when you are ready.
