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When Should You Schedule Developmental Screenings for Your Child?

Understanding the Importance of Timely Developmental Screenings

If you’ve ever found yourself comparing your toddler to other kids at the park, you’re not alone. It’s a common parental reflex—wondering if your child is “on track” or just taking a scenic route through their development. One day they’re babbling nonsense, and the next, they’re bossing you around in full sentences. But what happens when those expected milestones seem delayed, inconsistent, or worse, absent?

It can be unsettling, especially when family or friends say, “They’ll grow out of it.” Still, that little voice in your head might urge you to dig deeper. That’s where developmental screenings come in. These early check-ins are more than routine—they’re your first line of defense in identifying potential developmental delays and getting support early.

A screening can provide clarity and peace of mind, helping you better understand your child’s unique pace and needs. It also opens the door to services and strategies that can make a meaningful difference in their progress and confidence.

So, when’s the right time to schedule one? And what exactly does a developmental screening involve? Let’s walk through everything you need to know.

What Is a Developmental Screening—and Why Is It So Crucial?

Developmental screenings are short, structured assessments that help determine if your child is reaching key milestones in areas like speech, motor skills, problem-solving, and social interaction. Think of them as wellness checkups—not for physical health this time, but for cognitive and emotional development.

Screenings are typically conducted by pediatricians, early childhood educators, or child psychologists using evidence-based tools like questionnaires and observation checklists. They’re often brief but incredibly insightful, helping professionals spot subtle signs that might otherwise go unnoticed in daily routines. These assessments don’t diagnose conditions; rather, they flag concerns that might warrant further evaluation or a more comprehensive developmental assessment.

They can take place during well-child visits or through community programs, schools, or organizations focused on early childhood development. Some screenings even include input from parents and caregivers, since no one knows a child’s behavior better than you do.

The goal? Early identification. Because the earlier developmental challenges are spotted, the better the chances of addressing them effectively through targeted support, services, and resources. For a deeper dive into what screenings involve, visit our page on developmental screening services.

Key Developmental Milestones to Watch For

To know when to screen, it helps to know what you’re screening for. While every child develops at their own pace, there are general developmental milestones by age that serve as helpful guidelines:

By 6 Months

  • Responds to sounds and voices
  • Rolls over both ways
  • Shows curiosity and tries to reach for objects

By 12 Months

  • Says simple words like “mama” or “dada”
  • Stands with support
  • Imitates gestures and sounds

By 18 Months

  • Walks independently
  • Says several single words
  • Shows interest in other children

By 24 Months

  • Uses two-word phrases
  • Begins to sort objects by shape or color
  • Shows increasing independence

If your child consistently misses milestones in one or more areas, even after a reasonable delay, it’s time to speak up. It’s normal for children to hit milestones at different times—some may walk at 10 months, others closer to 18 months—but when key developmental skills seem to be lagging consistently, it’s worth addressing.

Your pediatrician should take those concerns seriously. Don't feel hesitant to bring up your observations. Whether it’s delayed speech, difficulty with social interactions, or trouble with motor skills, expressing your concerns can help open the door to further evaluations or interventions.

Sometimes, even small delays can signal the need for early intervention, which can make a significant difference in a child’s development. Addressing concerns early can help ensure your child receives the right support and services tailored to their needs.

If your pediatrician isn’t as responsive as you’d hope, remember that you have the right to seek a second opinion or refer your child to specialists, such as child psychologists, speech therapists, or developmental pediatricians. The key is taking proactive steps and staying informed.

When Should You Schedule a Developmental Screening?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends developmental screenings during regular well-child visits at:

  • 9 months
  • 18 months
  • 24 or 30 months

These screenings are in addition to the routine observations made by healthcare providers during checkups. However, they’re not the only opportunities. You can—and should—ask for a screening any time you have concerns.

Ideal Times to Consider Scheduling a Screening:

  • Before enrolling in preschool
  • After recovering from a long illness or trauma
  • If a sibling or close relative has been diagnosed with a developmental disorder
  • If your child regresses in skills they’ve previously mastered

In other words, don’t wait for an appointment to ask. You’re your child’s most important advocate. And if you're unsure where to begin, Families United offers supportive resources and expert guidance to help you navigate this process.

Trusting Your Gut: Recognizing Red Flags in Your Child’s Development

You know your child best. If something feels off, it probably is—at the very least, it’s worth checking.

Common Developmental Red Flags:

  • No smiling or eye contact by 6 months
  • No babbling by 12 months
  • Doesn’t respond to name by 12 months
  • Can’t walk by 18 months
  • No meaningful words by 24 months
  • Loss of previously acquired skills

Whether it’s a lingering hunch or a specific concern, never feel like you’re overreacting. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else, and your instincts matter. If something feels off, it’s completely valid to seek guidance. Early developmental screening is a tool, not a label. It’s designed to give you peace of mind and provide a clearer picture of your child’s development, not to define or stigmatize them.

Screening is not about categorizing children as “behind” or “falling short.” It’s an opportunity to spot potential concerns early and connect with the support that can help your child thrive. In fact, the earlier challenges are identified, the easier it is to address them before they become more pronounced.

So, if you feel like something’s not quite right, trust yourself. The goal isn’t to “fix” your child, but to ensure they get the resources and support they need to grow and succeed on their own unique path.

What to Expect During a Developmental Screening

Many parents worry that developmental screenings will be stressful or complicated. In truth, most are quick, interactive, and even fun for kids. Tools like the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) or the M-CHAT (used to screen for autism spectrum disorders) typically involve parents answering a series of structured questions about their child’s behavior, which makes the process relatively easy.

For example, the ASQ is a parent-friendly tool that covers areas such as communication, gross and fine motor skills, and social-emotional development. Meanwhile, the M-CHAT focuses on behaviors like social interaction, communication, and play, helping screen for potential autism-related concerns. These questionnaires allow parents to share their insights, creating a well-rounded picture of a child’s progress.

Some screenings also include brief observational activities—such as stacking blocks, pointing to body parts, or mimicking actions. These simple tasks, though playful in nature, give valuable insights into your child’s developmental progress. Not only do they help assess motor and cognitive skills, but they also allow professionals to gauge how your child responds in various situations.

The best part? Screenings can often be done during a regular pediatric visit or through your local early intervention program—sometimes even virtually. This makes it easier to fit into your busy schedule without added stress. At Families United, we offer accessible developmental screenings tailored to your child’s unique needs. For more information, visit our developmental screening services.

What If the Screening Raises Concerns?

First, take a breath. A positive result on a developmental screening doesn’t necessarily mean a diagnosis—it simply means it’s time for further evaluation. This can feel like a lot to process, but remember, it’s just the first step in addressing any concerns. The screening is designed to help identify areas where your child might need extra support, not to place a label on them.

If there are any concerns, you might be referred to specialists such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, or developmental pediatricians who can assess your child more thoroughly. These experts can help identify whether additional interventions are needed and tailor a plan to support your child’s unique needs.

The key is to act quickly. Early intervention services are often available through local and state-funded programs and can be low-cost or even free, depending on your eligibility. The sooner support begins, the greater your child’s ability to overcome challenges and thrive in their development. Early intervention has been shown to make a significant difference in a child’s growth, whether it's improving language skills or boosting social-emotional development.

You’re not alone in this journey. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about your next steps, reach out to our team—we're here to help you connect with the right services and provide the support you need. Whether it’s helping you understand the referral process or navigating local programs, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts: When in Doubt, Check It Out

Parenting is full of unknowns, but when it comes to your child’s development, you have the power to make informed choices. Developmental screenings are one of the simplest and most effective tools for identifying potential issues early, giving your child the best possible start. By acting early, you can ensure that any challenges are addressed before they become more significant hurdles.

If something doesn’t sit right with you—whether it’s a gut feeling or a specific concern—don’t hesitate to speak up. Ask your pediatrician for a screening, or explore trusted services like those provided by Families United. Remember, it’s better to raise the concern yourself than to wait for someone else to point it out. You are your child’s best advocate.

The earlier you act, the more options you’ll have. Early intervention can provide invaluable support, resources, and strategies that allow your child to flourish. So, take that first step. It’s never too early to start, and the support is out there, waiting for you.

Take the Next Step

Still wondering if it’s time? Here’s your sign: go ahead and schedule a developmental screening. Whether it’s something you’ve been meaning to bring up at your child’s next checkup or a concern that’s been on your mind for a while, taking this step is always worth it.

A screening is a simple, non-invasive way to ensure your child is on track or to catch any issues early on. You won’t regret it. In fact, you’ll likely feel a sense of relief knowing you’ve taken proactive steps to support your child’s future development. Early intervention can make all the difference, and it all starts with asking the right questions.

And if you found this article helpful, consider sharing it with another parent who might need it too. The more we talk about developmental health, the more confident we all become in supporting our children.