• Purpose: Identify children who may be at risk for developmental delays.
• Methods: Brief observations, questionnaires, or assessments are often used to quickly screen large groups of children.

• Purpose: To get a detailed understanding of the child’s strengths and areas of concern.
• Methods: In-depth assessments may involve standardized tests, observations, parent interviews, and input from other professionals.

Assessments typically cover various developmental areas, including:

• Cognitive skills: Thinking, problem-solving, and learning abilities.
• Motor skills: Both fine and gross motor skills.
• Communication skills: Speech and language development.
• Social and emotional development: Interactions with others, emotional regulation.
• Adaptive skills: Daily living skills, such as dressing and feeding.

Parents are usually actively involved in the assessment process. Their insights into the child’s behavior, development, and family dynamics are crucial.

A team of professionals, such as educators, psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, may collaborate to conduct a comprehensive assessment.

If a child qualifies for early intervention services, an IFSP is developed. This plan outlines the child’s strengths, needs, and the services to be provided to support the child and family.

Assessment is not a one-time event. It’s an ongoing process with regular reviews to monitor progress and make adjustments to the intervention plan as needed.