When Is a Developmental Screening Needed?

Dr. Kristine Liberty, Dr. Steven Kovar, and Dr. Jessica Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics – your pediatrician in Plainfield, IL – are here to help ensure your child is growing and developing as they should.

Pediatric Developmental Screenings

Generally, children meet certain mental, physical, and emotional milestones by specific ages. When these are achieved, pediatricians know that the child is developing as they should. However, if they aren't met, further evaluation can determine the cause.

Your pediatrician will use a combination of checklists, questionnaires, and observation to screen for issues during regular wellness check-ups. Below, Dr. Liberty, Dr. Kovar, and Dr. Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL provide a general guideline for when to expect these screenings to occur.

Recommended Developmental and Behavioral Screenings

The AAP – or American Academy of Pediatrics – recommends that pediatricians complete these screenings at the following ages.

• 9 months old: At this time, they observe a child’s ability to understand the word “no,” crawl, and say simple words like “mama.”
• 18 months old: By 18 months, most children can say several words, walk, go up and down the stairs, and use a spoon. The AAP also recommends screening for autism spectrum disorder at this time and again at 24 months old.
• 30 months old: Screenings look for recognition of colors, walking, running, saying the names of common items, and being able to dress or undress themselves to some degree.

General Screenings

General screenings aren’t necessarily recommended by the AAP, but pediatricians typically do them at the following ages.

• Up to 4 months old: Can the baby bring their hands to their mouth, smile, and coo?
• 6 months old: Do they play with others, sit up without a parent’s help, and roll over?
• 1-year-old: Can they follow simple instructions, walk with help, and play peekaboo?

What Happens With the Results of These Screenings?

If everything seems to be developing as it should, nothing further is done. If there are any signs of potential issues, your pediatrician might recommend additional testing or refer you to a specialist.

It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean something is necessarily wrong. Children do not all develop at the same rate. However, it’s better to assess any potential problems early so that any necessary treatment can begin sooner rather than later.

If you have any questions about developmental screenings with a pediatrician, don’t hesitate to call (815) 609-5437. Dr. Liberty, Dr. Kovar, Dr. Ciszek, and our team at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL are dedicated to providing the most optimal care for every patient.