Developmental Screenings: When to ask for help

 

Concerned about your child's development?

Is your child missing milestones? Or, are you concerned about their development? If so, you can ask your child’s health care provider about a developmental screening.

The AAP recommends parents request a developmental screening whenever they have a concern. This is because you know your child best! They also recommend that children are screened for general development by health care providers at:

  • 9 months old
  • 18 months old
  • 2 years old
  • 2 ½ years old

You can ask your child’s health care provider for a developmental screening. Acting early can make a real difference!

At 12 months, CDC recommends a screening if your child...

  • Is missing milestones.

  • Does not crawl.

  • Cannot stand when supported.

  • Does not search for things that they see you hide.

  • Does not say single words like “mama” or “dada.”

  • Does not learn gestures like waving or shaking their head.

  • Does not point to things.

  • Loses skills they once had.

At 18 months, CDC recommends a screening if your child...

  • Is missing milestones.
  • Does not point to show things to others.
  • Cannot walk.
  • Does not know what familiar things are for.
  • Does not copy others.
  • Does not gain new words.
  • Does not have at least 6 words.
  • Does not notice or mind when a caregiver leaves or returns.
  • Loses skills they once had.

Don’t wait! Ask your health care provider for a developmental screening. Visit cdc.gov/Concerned for more information on how to support your child. Or, call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636). Agents speak English and Spanish.


American Academy of Pediatrics

A developmental screening includes a short test and/or a list of questions the parent will answer. Screenings have been developed based on years of childhood development research. These screenings can be done by health care professionals, educators, and other child care professionals.