Developmental Screening

Developmental milestones are the skills most children reach by certain ages; like sitting independently around 9 months, saying first words around 12 months, or taking first steps between 12 and 14 months. These milestones give us helpful guideposts for how children typically grow in areas like communication, movement, problem-solving, and social skills. While every child develops at their own pace, tracking milestones helps us notice patterns and make sure development is moving forward.

Developmental screening builds on that idea. It’s a brief, structured “snapshot” of your child’s current skills across several developmental areas. The purpose isn’t to label, diagnose, or compare children; it’s simply to check in. Most screenings confirm that a child is developing right on track. Occasionally, results suggest that a child may benefit from a closer look in a specific area. When concerns are identified early, support can begin sooner and early support is often simpler and more effective.

Screening works best when it’s done universally and periodically for all young children, from infancy through the preschool years, using reliable and research-based tools. This ensures we don’t rely on guesswork and that we catch concerns that might otherwise be missed, especially in areas that are harder to see, like language comprehension or social-emotional development.

Parents are central to the screening process because you are the expert on your child. You observe your child in everyday routines; at mealtime, during play, at bedtime, around siblings, and in new environments. You know what they can do when they’re rested and comfortable, and what they’re still learning. Many screening tools are based on parent observations for this reason. In fact, research shows that simply completing a developmental questionnaire often helps parents better understand their child’s strengths and identify new ways to support growth at home.

Screening is best viewed as a developmental wellness check. It opens the door to conversation, not judgment. If results are typical, which they usually are, families gain reassurance. If questions arise, it doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong. It simply means it’s worth talking through next steps. That might include monitoring progress, repeating a screening in a few months, or pursuing a more in-depth evaluation through early intervention or early childhood special education programs. Sometimes that evaluation confirms everything is fine. Other times, it connects families with services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or developmental support that can make a meaningful difference during these important early years.

Above all, screening is just one piece of the bigger picture. The most powerful support for development happens in everyday moments. Talking through routines, asking questions, singing songs, reading books, exploring outdoors, and responding to your child’s interests all strengthen language, thinking skills, social understanding, and connection. Those consistent, simple interactions are the foundation of healthy development and they matter more than anything else.