The Importance of Developmental Screenings for Children

As parents we know how important it is to track our children's growth and physical health through routine checkups and annual physicals. But all too often, the window of opportunity; (between the ages of birth to five years old, when a child's brain and body go through the most growth) is missed when it comes to discovering and diagnosing issues concerning mental health, learning disabilities, or behavior problems that may hinder developmental growth.

According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, five to eight percent of children under the age of five have some sort of physical disability or chronic condition; but the number of children who have developmental or behavioral disorders is much higher at 12 to 16 percent. The growing number of children being diagnosed with autism is an excellent example.

It is essential that all areas of a child's health be assessed so that any possible problems can be identified early on and an intervention or treatment plan can be implemented. The earlier a problem can be identified, the better chance of getting the help a child needs to make the most out of those important growing and learning years.

It is up to you as a parent to insist that your pediatrician take the time to administer the developmental screenings and not just base your child's overall health on a physical "once-over". As your child's caregiver, you are the expert and can be the greatest tool in providing the most input on your child's habits and capabilities. Do not second guess yourself or hesitate to share information that you may have concerns about.

Of course, not every disability or disorder can be "cured", but if identified early enough you will have a greater opportunity to make the most out of those precious first few years of life.

For developmental screening tools and questionnaire examples, visit: www.agesandstages.com
Development monitoring and milestone information for parents can be found at : www.firstsigns.org