Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving "bye bye" are called developmental milestones. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act, and move (crawling, walking, etc.). Children develop at their own pace, so it's impossible to tell exactly when a child will learn a given skill. However, the developmental milestones give a general idea of the changes to expect as a child gets older. As a parent, you know your child best. If your child is not meeting the milestones for his or her age, or if you think there could be a problem with your child’s development, talk with your child’s doctor and share your concerns. Don’t wait. Know the signs. Act early. Give your child the healthiest possible start in life. Learn more...
About Developmental Milestones
What is Developmental Screening?
Developmental screening is a way of identifying whether or not your child’s development is on track. Is he or she growing in ways similar to other children his/her age? For example, a screening question for a 9 month old baby might ask whether or not the baby is sitting without support as that skill is appropriate for a 9 month old. For many families, screening results provide the peace of mind that their child is developing the skills and behaviors that are appropriate for his/her age. Screening is easy, doesn’t take much time, and just like getting annual checkups and vaccinations, is important to your child’s health. Learn more...
How to Access Screening
For children between birth and 3 years old
For children younger than 3 years old, pediatricians conduct regular developmental screenings at 9, 18 & 30 months. It is important to talk to your child’s doctor about how he/she is growing and developing. Ask your child’s doctor about developmental screening at the next well visit. It is important to talk to your child’s doctor about how he/she is growing and developing. Ask your child’s doctor about developmental screening at the next well visit.
For children between 3 and 5 years old
For children who are between 3-5 years old, Child Outreach conducts free annual developmental screenings. Child Outreach provides screenings in many early care and education centers. If your child is in school, check with your child’s teacher for upcoming screening dates. You can always contact your local Child Outreach provider directly to schedule an individual screening for child.
Materials have been created specifically for parents, families and providers like you. You can access these materials to learn more about developmental screening and milestones. Most of these items are available for download, print and sharing to spread the word about developmental screenings!
Resources for Parents & Providers
Amazing Me! It’s Busy Being 3! Book
This is a story you can read with your child to show you what to look for as your child grows and develops.
Access the E-Book here! - English ¡Acceda al E-Book aquí! - Spanish