What is the purpose of developmental screening?

Developmental screening serves the important function of assessing a child’s skill levels in various developmental domains, such as motor, cognitive, social-emotional, and language skills. This process allows educators and professionals to identify children who may be at risk for developmental delays or disabilities. By conducting screenings, practitioners can determine if a child shows typical development or if further testing is warranted to investigate potential concerns more thoroughly.

This early identification is crucial because it enables timely interventions, which can mitigate long-term academic and social issues. Therefore, developmental screenings are not primarily about diagnosing specific disabilities, providing interventions, or evaluating classroom behavior but about gathering information that helps guide the next steps for assessment or support.