The purpose of a developmental assessment is to review the toddler's developmental achievement. The assessment compares this achievement with the developmental achievement of children of similar ages and backgrounds. This helps in identifying possible developmental delays. Even though there are normal variations in children's development, infants and toddlers tend to learn similar tasks at similar ages. If a toddler lags behind, she may have a problem that requires special help.
Parents know the most about their child.
Doctors or nurses do an initial developmental assessment as part of the physical examination and health history. They will observe and talk to the toddlers. Information provided by the parents is especially important, since the parents have the most complete Knowledge of the children and are better able to comment on their growth and development. If problems arise, ask for help. If developmental lags or delays are identified as part of the health assessment, additional developmental testing should be done by experts in child growth and development.