Children are all so different and, as parents, it is enjoyable
to take pride in what makes your child unique. But sometimes
parents have concerns about their child. For example, parents
of a 15-month-old may wonder, "Why isn't my child walking
yet?" Or two mothers at a playgroup may notice their same-age
children have very different language skills. It is often difficult
to distinguish between normal development and what may be a warning
sign that would indicate a delay in his or her development. In
some children, differences in development could signal a special
need.
What can you do if you have concerns about a child's development?
Check a chart of developmental milestones. Checking these charts
can be helpful in putting a parent's concerns about a child's
development into some perspective. These charts can typically
be found in parenting magazines or baby care books and are meant
to be a general guide.
For example, a milestone chart may indicate that it is age-appropriate
for infants to begin walking between 12 and 17 months. This information
may reassure you that your child is on target with what is considered
typical development. But you may still have questions.
Talk to your pediatrician/family physician. The American Academy
of Pediatrics recommends giving a developmental screening test
at each well-child visit. Often, parents who have concerns about
a child's development or behavior first discuss the issue with
the child's pediatrician/family physician.
Doctors are knowledgeable about developmental and behavioral
problems. They also recognize that, often, these difficulties
continue to develop over a period of time. What might be only
a mild concern at 18 months may be a more challenging problem
at 24 months. It is important to realize the "flu model" doesn't
work here, as Contemporary Pediatrics explains. A virus like
the flu usually will run its course. Often, developmental challenges
for children, without intervention, may worsen over time.
Early intervention can help
The doctor may refer a child to early intervention. In Vermont,
the Family, Infant & Toddler Program coordinates early intervention
for children birth to age 3. Specialists in child development
provide the services, including a full assessment of the child
in all areas of development. Families are a big part of the evaluation
process.
If a child is eligible and would benefit from intervention,
services can be set up for that child. One example of a service
might be physical therapy. There are many other services included
in early intervention. What's important to know is that services
are matched to meet the needs of the child and his/her family.
Families are a big part of the service process too, because
parents are the first educators in their child's life, as research
has shown. In early intervention, parents are seen as equal partners
in the process. Parents are supported in helping their child
develop to his/her full potential.
The Family, Infant and Toddler Program for the Bennington region
is at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. Before making a referral,
though, discuss it with the child's family. Families do not need
to pay for services through FITP. To reach FITP, call 447-2768.
For concerns about children age 3 to 5, contact your local school
district and ask to speak with someone about early education
services. For the Southwest Vermont Supervisory Union, call 447-8419.
Sharen Hansen M.S., Ed., is an early interventionist with
the Bennington Family, Infant & Toddler Program.
