Diagnosis

1. Developmental screening

The diagnosis takes 2 steps.

2. Comprehensive Evaluation

-The goal of this short test is to tell if the child is learning the basic skills they should be
-during this test the doctor might have the parent play or talk with the child to see how the child learns, speaks, behaves, and moves
-A delay in any of these areas could be a sign of a problem.

-Thorough review
-the doctor looks at the child’s behavior and development and interviews the parents
-May include hearing and vision screening, genetic testing, neurological testing, and other medical testing.

-there is no medical test like a blood test used to diagnose the disorder

-It can sometimes be detected at 18 months or younger

-All children should be screened for developmental delays and disabilities during regular well-child doctor visits at:
-9 months
-18 months
-24 or 30 months

-Additional screening might be needed if a child is at high risk for developmental problems due to preterm birth, low birth weight or other reasons.