Understanding Children's Development, 6th Edition (Basic Psychology)

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Your child’s physician can screen your child for any developmental delays using validated screening tools at or in-between well visits. If you’re wondering whether some aspect of a child’s development may be delayed, you have several options.

If your child is 3 or older, you can speak to the special education director at the public school near your home (even if your child isn’t enrolled at that school) to ask for a developmental evaluation. Make sure you write down the date and director’s name so you can follow up if necessary. Strong parent-child bonds, good nutrition, adequate sleep, and a safe, nurturing environment at home and school will help ensure that children have the best chance of developing as they should. Despite their rapid growth and development, they still need parents and caregivers to set limits and encourage healthy habits. Babies, toddlers, and school-age children develop new skills and abilities in a steady progression as they get older. Every child develops at an individual pace. If there is a delay, identifying it early can sometimes make a big difference for the child. What are developmental milestones?https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/child-development/art-20045155

If your child is under the age of 3, you can reach out to the early intervention program in your state. If you’re a caregiver or educator who needs to discuss a possible delay with parents, the CDC recommends that you approach the topic in a clear, compassionate way. You may find these tips helpful: You can also ask your pediatrician for a referral to a developmental specialist like a pediatric neurologist, occupational therapist, speech/language therapist, or a psychologist who specializes in evaluating children.Dosman CF, et al. (2012). Evidence-based milestone ages as a framework for developmental surveillance.DOI: If you’re concerned about the possibility of a missed milestone, your child’s doctor can discuss it with you and can conduct a developmental screening as needed to provide a clearer picture. You can also connect with developmental specialists, early intervention programs, and special education programs in local schools to have a child evaluated. As kids mature, the parenting challenge is to find a balance between keeping them safe, enforcing rules, maintaining family connections, allowing them to make some decisions, and encouraging them to accept increasing responsibility. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/language-development/art-20045163