The first years in a child’s life are a blur of feeding, bathing, changing, child-proofing, and scattered toys. They are also a time of rapid brain development that will never be matched again. The changes and growth that take place in a child’s brain between birth and age five is truly astounding. This window of time offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for children to make major leaps forward in everything from language and speech development to interpersonal interaction.
One way parents can help their children take full advantage of this rich growth period is to make early childhood screenings a priority. Why? Well, children whose delays are caught during this time see much better long term progress results than those who are treated later. That means that if a child has, for example, speech development delays and they are treated at age two instead of age 6 they will have better results over their lifetime, not just in the years between two and six.
Where do screenings take place? The most common location is during well-child visits at your pediatrician. You can also schedule a free screening at Carolina Pediatric Therapy. Here’s a quick example of how screening can make a big difference.
Case Study:
Meet Jackson. He’s a rambunctious eighteen month old that loves swinging and playing in the sandbox. Jackson’s mom, Marissa has noticed that Jackson doesn’t say many words, and only makes a few sounds during a normal day. She’s always thought he was just a “quiet” personality, but decided to do a little research. There are very specific milestones for speech development, and after looking online, at a chart like this one by the American Speech Language Hearing Association, she realizes Jackson isn’t using consonants or naming simple objects like other children his age. After contacting his pediatrician, and receiving a referral to Carolina Pediatric Therapy, a therapist is working with Jackson and his mom. Together they are forming a team that is helping Jackson move forward, before his delay causes other developmental challenges.
You are the most important advocate your child has. Be sure your child gets his or her early screenings. You could make a huge difference, not only in their first years, but in all the ones to follow! If you have questions or concerns, contact our team at Carolina Pediatric Therapy, we’re here to make sure your little one reaches their full potential! Appointments screenings are available for scheduling at 828-670-8056.
Sources: KidsHealth.org – ASHA.org & Hanen.org
Why Are Early Childhood Screenings and Intervention So Important?
~Jenny Schermerhorn
Carolina Pediatric Therapy © January 2014
