Missing certain milestones, such as beginning to talk or walk at a certain age, could be a sign of developmental problems and the need for early intervention services. Developmental screening helps identify young children who might be at risk for problems or delays in different areas so early intervention can occur. Dr. Maria Castro, the board-certified pediatrician at StarLight Pediatrics in Holly Springs, NC, performs developmental screening for young children, including newborns, infants, and toddlers.
Developmental Screening
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that one in four children between birth and five years of age is potentially at risk for developmental delays, which is why developmental screening is so important. The purpose of developmental screening is to examine and assess how a child is developing in different areas, including movement, behavior, language, thinking, and emotions.
At our pediatric practice in Holly Springs, NC, developmental screening is performed using a combination of scientifically validated checklists and questionnaires. The screening process helps identify specific areas in which a child might be delayed, including growth, development, and learning. Once potential areas of delay are identified, an intervention and treatment plan can be developed to help your child develop properly and meet important milestones.
Based on the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), all children should undergo developmental screening at certain ages during their regular checkups or well-child visit, even if they do not appear to be at risk for developmental delays. The AAP recommends developmental screening be performed during the well-child visit at ages 9 months, 18 months, and 30 months. The AAP also recommends screening kids for autism during both their visits at 18 months and 24 months.
Early Intervention Services
Identifying developmental delays as soon as possible is important for early intervention services, such as speech therapy. Receiving treatment and intervention services early on can dramatically improve the development of a child with delays. Early intervention in children under three years of age helps them learn important skills that are needed to develop on schedule. As kids get older, untreated developmental delays could lead to the need for special education services.
Developmental screening is an important tool for identifying potential growth and development delays so early intervention can occur, which can greatly improve development in different areas. For developmental screening in Holly Springs, NC, schedule an appointment with Dr. Castro for developmental screening by calling StarLight Pediatrics at (919) 762-5113.