Child Development Services
With Developmental Paediatrics at its core, the practice provides assessment, diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of children and young people's development and functioning, with input from specialist professionals where appropriate.
Developmental Assessment
A comprehensive assessment of the child's developmental progress and functioning, exploring key areas of development including communication, social interaction, cognitive and learning skills, behaviour, adaptive functioning and motor skills.
Diagnostic Assessments
Specialist diagnostic assessment of neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as learning difficulties. Assessment is tailored to the individual clinical question and, where appropriate, involves professionals from different disciplines in accordance with internationally established clinical guidelines.
Speech and Language Assessment
Specialist assessment of the child's speech, language and communication skills, exploring receptive and expressive language, speech sound production and phonology, and social communication. The assessment may be provided as a standalone service or, where appropriate, as part of a joint assessment with the Developmental Paediatrician.
Monitoring Developmental Progress
Ongoing monitoring of the child's development over time, particularly where developmental or behavioural difficulties are present or the child is already receiving intervention. Follow-up assessment allows progress to be reviewed and recommendations to be updated in line with the child's changing needs.
Supporting, Educating and Empowering Families
Providing families with information and practical guidance to help them better understand their child's developmental journey and manage everyday challenges, so that parents feel more confident and supported in taking the next steps.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Care Coordination
Collaboration between different professionals can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the child's functioning. Where appropriate, coordination may involve therapists, psychologists, special educational professionals and the child's school, with the aim of developing a coherent plan of support.
EOPYY Therapy Prescriptions
Electronic National Organization for Health Care Services Provision (EOPYY) prescriptions for therapy services, based on the findings of the developmental assessment and the child's individual needs.
The Assessment Process
A developmental assessment is an important step in clarifying questions about a child's development, identifying potential difficulties at an early stage, and providing appropriate guidance to the family. It does not necessarily mean that a developmental disorder is present; rather, it can help us better understand a child's strengths and needs and provide the right support at each stage of their development.
Detailed Developmental History
A comprehensive discussion with parents or caregivers about the child's developmental journey, current concerns, strengths and difficulties, as well as their wider everyday functioning and circumstances.
Clinical Observation
Assessment of the child through clinical observation, free play and structured activities and, where appropriate, the use of specialised assessment tools.
Information from School
Consideration of information from the child's school, where available, to develop a fuller understanding of their everyday functioning.
Feedback and Next Steps
A detailed discussion of the assessment findings, together with clear recommendations and guidance tailored to the child's individual strengths and needs.
Multidisciplinary Assessment
A child's development is considered from different perspectives, taking into account their overall functioning. Where appropriate, assessment is carried out in collaboration with specialist professionals within our team, bringing together findings from different areas and develop a clearer understanding of the child's needs.
Specialised Assessment Tools
Assessment may include the use of internationally recognised, evidence-based assessment tools, carefully selected according to each child's age, individual needs and the specific areas requiring further evaluation.
Tools: Griffiths III, Bayley-4, Vineland-3
Tools: ADOS-2, ADI-R
Tools: Raven's CPM/CVS, Athena Test
Do You Have Questions About the Developmental Assessment Process or Your Child's First Appointment?