Developmental Screening

What are developmental screenings?

Developmental screenings focus on identifying potential developmental delays that can affect your child’s growth and overall health. Screenings are a part of routine well-child visits from soon after birth until the age of five.

These developmental assessments allow your pediatrician to assess certain milestones children should be reaching at different ages. These milestones involve:

• Language
• Thinking skills
• Communication
• Problem-solving skills

Assessments also address your child’s physical development and movements.

In addition to having developmental screenings done during a routine wellness exam, you can also request a screening if your child is missing certain milestones or you have concerns about unusual symptoms or behaviors.

What can I expect during a developmental screening?

Developmental screenings begin with a physical exam of your child. Your pediatrician also discusses your child’s health history and your family history, as well as any concerns you have about your child’s growth and development.

The pediatric team offers screenings for developmental issues, like:

• Autism
• Cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome
• Genetic disorders
• Tourette syndrome
• Intellectual and learning disabilities

Developmental issues in children can affect their speech, physical health, and cause long-term disabilities that interfere with quality of life. By screening for these issues early, your Katy Pediatric Associates provider can recommend the right intervention services to meet your child’s needs if they identify areas of concern.

Your Katy Pediatric Associates provider discusses with you how to move forward if they suspect any developmental issues during your appointment. They work closely with you to identify the resources you need to support your child and help make the necessary specialist referrals.

What services are available for developmental issues?

The Katy Pediatric Associates medical team coordinates care for your child with other specialists if necessary. They also provide guidance for your family, your child’s school, and other caregivers to ensure everyone is on the same page in supporting your child at home, school, and in other environments.

Your pediatrician also provides comprehensive medical care if your child needs medication therapy or other care to manage existing disabilities or health conditions. Through wellness visits and other checkups, the Katy Pediatric Associates team monitors your child’s physical health and continues to assess their development.

If you have concerns about developmental delays or need to schedule a developmental screening for your child, call Katy Pediatric Associates today or request an appointment online.