Developmental delay--identification and management.

Frank Oberklaid; Daryl Efron

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PubMed · 16184205

Developmental delay--identification and management.

Frank Oberklaid·Daryl Efron

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Developmental delay occurs in up to 5% of children under 5 years of age. This includes delays in speech and language development, motor development, social-emotional development, and cognitive development. General practitioners are in an ideal position to play a central role in the early detection of developmental and behavioural problems in young children. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of various methods health professionals use to assess children's development. It recommends ongoing developmental surveillance (rather than point-in-time assessment) and a multidisciplinary approach. DISCUSSION: In a busy general practice, obtaining parent reports of development is a good "first line screen", and an efficient and effective way of selecting out children who require a more detailed assessment and/or referral. Early intervention is essential for optimising developmental progress in the delayed child.

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Child Development Child, Preschool Developmental Disabilities Family Practice Humans Infant Mass Screening Medical History Taking Parents Physician's Role Professional-Family Relations Referral and Consultation Journal Article Review

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Frank Oberklaid, Daryl Efron. 2005. Developmental delay--identification and management.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16184205/

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