13 month old unable to use arms properly

[nanny 2 4]

I am a childminder and have done it for 23 plus years...i have recently started caring for a now 13 month old...she has been with me for  4 months now and I had concerns almost imeadiatley...enough that i voiced my concerns to mom...who took her to the doctors who refferred her to a pediatrician...her appt is this week....This child doesnt try to babble...only cries...she is a dead weight no attempt is made to hang on...she has only just mastered sitting up...but still flops backwards.....cannot use her arms/hands she cant put hand to mouth...doesnt attempt to hold a cup or bottle...never attempts to put anything in her mouth (food or toys) cant use both arms together and although she can flick toys she hasnt got a strong grip...cant roll over...wont put weight on her feet at all ...doesnt grip ..cant play and has such a vacant expression.... what could the problem be ?

[theresa1]

A good ped should be able to determine the problem or refer to additional testing or a specialist. Supporting the parents in getting the child evaluated and starting treatment if necessary is likely to be a big help.

[Greenlea]

I'm kind of surprised the parents hadn't already had her checked out.  Seems like a neurological problem.

[Zangua]

yes, seems neurological. I have a friend whose child had similar issues and it turns out (in laymans terms), the coils on one side of her brain weren't wound tight enough. With early intervention she is doing wonderfully at age 6, but she has a VERY dedicated mama and a lot of help.