Developmental Milestones, Screening & Services
Understanding Your Child’s Development: Milestones, Screenings and Early Support
Watching your child grow and learn is one of the most exciting parts of parenting. Along the way, you may have questions about your child's development, wonder if they are on track or simply want reassurance that they are thriving. Whether you're celebrating new skills, keeping an eye on progress or looking for guidance, there are tools and resources available to support you. Trust your instincts, ask questions and know that early support can help children reach their fullest potential.
Every child has a unique path.
The term “developmental milestones” refers to things most children can do by a certain age like smiling for the first time, taking their first step or waving “bye bye.” You see milestones every day when playing, talking and interacting with your child. Every child is different, and all children develop at their own pace. It is normal for some children to reach milestones slightly late or early. By tracking your child’s development, you are aware of where they are excelling and where they may need additional support.
-
Developmental Monitoring
Track your child’s progress. The CDC Milestone Tracker App is a simple tool you can use at home. This free resource offers illustrated checklists, tips, photos and videos to support you as you monitor your child’s progress.
Just as you are tracking your child’s milestones, your child care provider should be doing the same. Partner with them by sharing notes, asking if your provider is seeing things you’re seeing at home and vice versa. You and your provider are a team in supporting your child’s healthy growth and development.
-
Developmental Screening
Many child care programs use formal questionnaires or surveys to monitor children’s progress toward developmental milestones. A common tool is the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3), but several are useful. Ask your child care provider how they use and communicate the information they gain from their preferred screening tool.
You can also use a developmental screening tool with your child. Easterseals recommends Make the First Five Count, a free tool you can complete in 10-15 minutes.
If you're concerned - act early
If you have concerns about your child’s development, help is available. Explore the tips and resources below. For more information, visit the CDC’s “Concerned About Your Child’s Development?” page or call 1.800.CDC.INFO (1.800.232.4636).
Concerned about development?
How to Talk With the Doctor
A first step toward getting help for your child when you are concerned about their development (how your child plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves) is to talk with your child’s doctor.
-
1. Prepare for your visit.
- When you make your next well child appointment, tell the doctor’s office you would like to discuss concerns about your child’s development.
- Prepare questions, concerns and examples to bring with you to the appointment. You can do this a few ways:
- Write down what you have seen and what worries you.
- Fill out a milestones checklist for your child’s age.
- Review notes you have taken in the CDC Milestone Tracker App.
-
2. Ask all your questions during the visit. You know your child best, and your concerns are important.
- Tell the doctor you have concerns at the start of the visit and share the questions, concerns and examples you prepared.
- If the doctor seems to be in a hurry, ask if you should schedule another visit.
- Ask about the results of your child's most recent developmental screening. If a screening has not been done, ask for one. The CDC offers information about developmental screening.
- Take notes to help you remember what the doctor says and what to do next.
-
3. Make sure you understand what your doctor says and what to do next.
- Before you leave, make sure all your questions have been answered.
- If you do not understand something, ask the doctor to explain it again or in a different way.
- Ask the doctor, nurse or office staff for any information you will need to do what the doctor has told you. For example, "What is the phone number for my local early intervention program?"
- When you get home, review your notes and call the doctor's office if you have questions.
- Take the steps you discussed with your doctor and follow up with them about progress and additional questions.
Services and Resources
You have tracked developmental milestones and talked with your childcare provider and pediatrician. If you are concerned about your child’s development and ready to take next steps, check out the services below.
Services and Resources
The Arc of Indiana
Family advocates provide information, referral and advocacy around several topics, including early intervention and special education
First Steps
Indiana’s early intervention program offering evaluation for delays and disabilities as well as connections to education, health and social services.
Local school system
The early childhood special education services program offers free evaluations for services and free services, such as developmental preschool, for qualifying children.
Understood.org
Web-based resources for learning and thinking differences with explanations of IFSPs, IEPs and other elements of delays and disabilities.
Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center
Resources for families and teachers regarding early childhood special education and inclusion.
Easterseals
Community resource dedicated to serving children and adults with disabilities to promote growth, independence and dignity.
Family to Family
Family-to-family organization supporting families that have children with health care needs or disabilities.
FINDER Indiana Disability Resource
Indiana’s directory of services, programs and resources for the disability community.
Inclusive Schools Network
Web-based resources for families, schools and communities promoting inclusive educational practices.
IN*SOURCE
Parent-to-parent organization that supports families in navigating disability law and special education services in Indiana.