The Role of Pediatricians in Developmental Screening: What To Expect

Preparing for your child’s developmental screening? The team at Florida Pediatrics Group in Melbourne, West Melbourne, FL, and Merritt Island, FL share what to expect and why these screenings are nothing to be concerned about in the guide below.

What To Expect At a Developmental Screening

Children are expected to reach specific milestones as they grow, which include language milestones, physical milestones, and emotional skills. Some children do not meet these milestones as early as expected. This doesn’t necessarily mean that there is something wrong, but it can mean that they need specific intervention to help ensure proper development.

During well-child visits, pediatricians perform a developmental screening to ensure everything is on track. Below, our team at Florida Pediatrics Group in Melbourne, West Melbourne, FL, and Merritt Island, FL explain what to expect during these screenings.

Conversation

A large part of the screening revolves around the parent being asked questions. These are nothing to worry about or prepare for. They are targeted questions about your child’s behavior, actions, and reactions that give the pediatrician insight into development. And they are answers you'll already know, as you spend each day with your child. When asked, be honest and be sure to bring up any concerns you might have.

Observation

The pediatrician and any other present staff will keep an eye on your child during their visit. They’ll watch how your child interacts with you, them, and anyone else who might be present. They’ll also pay attention to how the child moves and behaves, as well as how they react to their assessment. The entire process is completely natural and non-invasive.

One example is when a pediatrician is assessing the development of a four-month-old. At this age, a baby is expected to hold an object that is placed in their hand. Therefore, the pediatrician might try seeing how your baby responds when he or she feels their stuffed animal in hand.

Discussion

You can expect the screening to end with more conversation. At this point, the results of the screening will be shared. If there are any concerns, recommendations are made and referrals are provided. In some cases, your pediatrician might recommend additional tests and screenings. You are encouraged to ask any questions or express any concerns at this point, as well.

If you have any questions about your child’s developmental screening, or it’s time to schedule one, contact our team at Florida Pediatrics Group in Melbourne, West Melbourne, FL, and Merritt Island, FL by calling Merritt Island, at (321) 453-1717, and Melbourne, and West Melbourne, FL, (321) 752-5210.