As children grow, they gain new skills: a first smile, word, and step. They develop skills in playing, learning, speaking, moving and interacting with others. When a child does not gain skills at a particular age or acquires skills much later than their same-age peers, it is called a developmental delay.
Routine developmental screenings can help determine if your child is reaching important developmental milestones. Parents are often the first to sense a concern about their child’s development. Tell your child’s doctor about your concerns. If developmental concerns are suspected, the doctor may refer your child for additional evaluation with the Birth to 3 Program or your local school district’s Special Education Program. Your child may receive developmental screenings from their primary care provider or from a Head Start/Early Head Start Program. Remember, noticing a child needs help early and having that child receive help has a positive and lasting impact.
If you are concerned about your child’s development and would like to talk with someone about screening and evaluation, talk to your child’s doctor or contact:
Wisconsin Wayfinder Resource Network to connect with Birth to 3 (for children under age 3)
Birth to 3 (for children under age 3)
Finding Your Way: Videos for Families — Birth to 3
Early Childhood Special Education Programs (for children ages 3 to 6)
search for your local school https://whsaonline.org/district and call to get the early childhood special education program contact information.
Finding Your Way: Videos for Families — Early Childhood Special Education
Wisconsin Head Start Association
608-442-6879
Finding Your Way: Videos for Families — Head Start/Early Head Start
Finding Your Way: Videos for Families — Home Visiting Programs
Screening for Developmental Delays
Developmental Monitoring–Tracking Your Child’s Developmental Milestones
- Act Early Wisconsin
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Milestone Moments Booklet
- CDC Milestone Moments Tracker App
- Developmental Monitoring and Screening
Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)