Child Development
Child development refers to how children learn and become able to perform more and more complex skills as they grow older. There are specific developmental milestones that are commonly identified that children are expected to achieve during a certain age range. Although developmental milestones are important for every child to achieve, it is important to remember that each child is unique and may learn and develop at a different rate. They may progress “on target” in some areas, but be a little behind in others.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide information on development milestones: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html
Click on an age range to access the CDC links for developmental milestones:
If a child has not achieved many of the milestones for his or her age range, or if a parent is concerned that their child’s development is not on track, they should consult their pediatrician. The pediatrician may suggest a Developmental Screening – or prescribe a specific evaluation. Here is how Community Therapy Services can help:
Free Developmental Screening Program
Community Therapy Services offers a free Developmental Screening for children ages 4 months to 5 years old. We utilize a standardized screening tool called Ages and Stages. The screening takes about 30-45 minutes and is done by a pediatric therapist and based on the Ages and Stages questionnaire that the parent fills out. Call us at 630-444-0077 to get the age appropriate questionnaire for your child and to schedule an appointment for the free screening.
