Concerned About Meeting Developmental Milestones?

If you think that your child is not meeting their developmental milestones or if you’re concerned that there may be an issue regarding your child’s development make an appointment with your pediatrician to discuss your concerns.

Ask your pediatrician for a developmental screener, or if you want to come prepared, you can download the Sparkler app and complete a screen right on your phone then receive a PDF file your can share with the doctor. Typically, a child will be screened at the 9, 18 and 30 month appointment, however there are 32 [Ages and Stages] Developmental Screens available. The developmental screening is a good jumping off point, the pediatrician can see what you are seeing in the home, while they can observe your child in-person. Voice your concerns and advocate for your child because no one knows your child better than you do. If there is a developmental concern, it is always better to seek intervention as early as possible to make the biggest impact.

Ask for a referral for a more in-depth evaluation even if the screen did not identify any potential concerns, trust your gut as a parent, because it’s always better to air on the side of caution. A referral can be made to any number of specialists: Speech and Language Therapists, Physical or Occupational Therapists, the Birth to Three program, Child Psychologists/Psychiatrists, Child Neurologists or a center that specializes in Autism diagnoses.

If for whatever reason your pediatrician doesn’t believe a referral is necessary and tells you to “wait and see”, you can contact the above providers to refer yourself or ask for a second opinion. If your child is under 3 years old, it may be easier to contact your local Birth to Three program to get started; they will be able to assess your child and provide you with beneficial resources even if you don’t qualify for services. If your child is three and over you could try to contact your local school district to request an evaluation through them for special education. Whatever direction you go, when you call, be specific about your concerns; have examples ready-the more information you can provide the easier it will be for the specialist to understand your concerns.

Keep track of all your appointments, documents and conversations you have had with professionals; this way it is easy to recall who has said what and what was recommended to you.

Monitoring your child’s developmental milestones is crucial for their growth and well-being. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician and take advantage of screening tools like the Sparkler app. Early intervention is key, so trust your instincts and advocate for your child by seeking appropriate evaluations and referrals when necessary. Remember, you are your child’s best advocate, and staying informed and organized can make a significant difference in ensuring they receive the support they need. Your proactive approach can create a supportive path for your child’s development, empowering them to reach their full potential.