According to the First Signs organization, many young children experience developmental delays, behavioral disorders and learning disabilities, but medical professionals, educators, social workers and parents still understand very little about their causes and how to treat them. One point on which professionals agree is that early detection and intervention deeply impact the quality of life for children with developmental delays, and can give families a variety of strategies to properly support their children in school and in social situations.
Step 1
Consult, but do not depend upon, milestones. The Keep Kids Healthy Guide points out that parents need to stay abreast of key developmental milestones, but that these milestones only serve as general guidelines. It is important to keep in mind that for each milestone, there is a range of ages during which a child will normally meet it. For example, some children may say first words before 12 months of age, while others do not say an intelligible word until almost a year later.
Step 2
Talk to your child's pediatrician. In most cases, a pediatrician offers the first screening for developmental delays. She may ask questions about milestones and home activities, or she may conduct a formal screening test.
Step 3
Consult with relevant specialists. The University of Michigan Health System notes that more refined consultation may take place with a pediatric neurologist or a developmental and behavioral pediatrician. These professionals should conduct formal screenings that result in a diagnosis.
Step 4
Secure a developmental evaluation. After developmental delay screenings, your child should have an evaluation that details his skills. A psychologist typically oversees the evaluation and then writes a profile outlining strengths and weaknesses in key developmental areas.
Step 5
Get a treatment plan. The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities asserts that early intervention services often make up a key component of a treatment plan. Early intervention covers medical, educational and therapeutic services to address developmental delays and disabilities. If your child is too old for early intervention, you can secure similar support through the school system.
Tips and Warnings
- If you perceive your child to be moving backward as opposed to advancing in developmental domains, get help immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Child's medical records
- Any evaluations of child's skills
