Monitoring for developmental problems in children

Developmental monitoring is increasingly used to detect problems early in young children. General practitioners (GPs) and early childhood nurses are the main professionals involved in monitoring development and referral for further assessment or intervention. Screening may involve using a tool such as the Parents’ Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS), followed by secondary screens (eg the Ages and Stages Questionnaire [ASQ] or the Brigance Developmental Screening Tool)1. In New South Wales, the emphasis is on Learn the signs. Act early . Children identified to have, or be at risk for, developmental delay or disability need suitable support and early intervention, including parent education.

Signs of developmental regression or significant behaviour change are an indicator for urgent paediatric assessment—this should include assessment for metabolic and neurological conditions eg new presentation of epilepsy.

Note: Refer a child of any age for urgent paediatric assessment if they have signs of developmental regression or significant behaviour change because this may indicate serious underlying health problems.

See also Manifestations of developmental delay and disability.

For assessment of children and adults with suspected developmental disability, see Assessment of developmental delay and disability.

1 Tools require specific training and may not be freely available. For information on the Parents’ Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) screening test, see here—this webpage also has links for ordering the Ages and Stages Questionnaire and the Brigance Developmental Screening Tool.Return