While it is important that primary care providers (PCPs) continue to conduct standardized developmental screenings as a routine component of well child visits, parents and early childhood professionals (ECP) represent an untapped resource for screening that could markedly improve the rate of early identification and referral of young children with developmental delays.

Developmental screening does not diagnose disorders or delays, it simply identifies potential problems. Concerning screening results indicate the need for further assessment to determine the child's strengths and needs, e.g., to determine if there is a problem to be addressed.

Ideally, screening is an ongoing process involving repeat screenings at certain age intervals, along with continuous, quality and informed observations made by adults familiar with the child. Screening should always involve a standardized tool, either completed by a parent or caregiver (‘parent-reported’), or administered by a professional.

We have included two ‘parent-reported’ screening instruments in Act Early Texas! that are both scored automatically for ease of use. Please click on the buttons below to learn more about age-appropriate developmental milestones and the AET! screening tools.