What Is Developmental Screening?

Developmental screening is a type of assessment used to evaluate a large number of children in a relatively short period of time. Keeping in mind the complex nature of early development, screening is designed to identify those few youngsters who may need further assessment for identification of specific developmental delays or disabilities. Early identification of developmental problems is important, because once special problems are identified, children can receive appropriate services to address those problems. Current recommendations are that all young children should be screened regularly for health and developmental needs.

Developmental screening typically involves parents and a variety of health care and early education professionals. Many communities sponsor screening clinics for young children through school districts or public health agencies. Pediatricians often conduct developmental screenings during well-baby check ups. Head Start programs, Kindergartens, and elementary schools all conduct various screenings to ensure that students receive appropriate services. This screening typically includes a brief test specially designed to identify those children who are experiencing developmental or health problems.

Some screening tests evaluate a child’s skills across motor, cognitive, social, and communication domains; others assess only a single area such as speech or motor development. Youngsters are tested in a standard format, in which, depending on age, they are observed in movement activities, presented with toys and other objects, shown pictures, asked questions, and given simple problems to solve. Each activity has a specific purpose and an expected performance on the part of the child.

The items included on early screening tests reliably demonstrate differences in ability between children who are developing as expected, and those who may have developmental problems. Screening tests do not generally require specialized training in order to administer the tests. Most screening tests for young children are completed by teachers, nurses, and/or parents, rather than by psychologists, therapists, or physicians.

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