What Is Learned From the Results of Developmental Screening?

Scores on screening tests are best used to answer questions such as, “Is this child developing as expected?” or “Does there seem to be a developmental problem?” or “Is more comprehensive assessment indicated?” Because the information gathered is very general, the results of even the best screening tests can only answer the above question by sorting children’s scores into three categories: reassure, refer, and reschedule.

Reassure. Results of the screening test indicate that children in this group are developing as expected. Parents and others are reassured that their children’s overall development is progressing typically, and professionals may provide parents and caregivers with information on parenting, developmentally appropriate activities, and what to expect as their children continue to grow and learn. Some other terms for results in this category might be “normal,” “typical,” or “within norms.”

Refer. Results of the screening test indicate that children in this group are developing more slowly or differently from most youngsters of the same age. Parents and early childhood teachers of children in this group are encouraged to schedule more thorough and detailed evaluations of these children. Most screening programs refer families directly to other professionals for further testing. Parents need to remember that these screenings are not diagnostic tests. Referrals are a way of determining whether a problem exists, and what that problem might be.

Reschedule. Results of screening are unclear or equivocal for children in this group, without a clear indication of whether or not there might be a developmental problem. Parents are advised to bring the child back in a few months to be tested again. Questionable results on a screening test indicate the need to help parents monitor their child’s development more closely than usual. Not all screening tests provide this classification of results, but those that do may use the terms “inconclusive” or “uncertain.”

Cautions. The purpose of developmental screening is only to identify those youngsters who need more comprehensive assessment. The results of screening tests are too general to make specific diagnoses of disabilities, and should not be considered as evidence to support or deny eligibility for special services. Screening tests should not be used to select learning goals, develop curriculum, or evaluate the progress of children in early education programs.

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