Typical custody arrangements are based on the needs of older children and there is little understanding of the special needs of infants and toddlers. This type of assessment helps courts come to a decision that will facilitate the best outcome for children under three. Developmental testing and assessment generates specific recommendations and to give new families the best chance for success. Adoptive parents get information that enhances the parent-child fit. Assessment helps parents make more informed decisions about environments that match the emotional, intellectual and social strengths and needs of their child.
Timely assessments are an invaluable aid for parents transitioning back to work.
There may be wide variability in areas of functioning that impede the smooth progression from one stage to the next. Most insurance policies cover psychological assessment if medical necessity is established. In the long run, timely assessments that generate early and accurate diagnoses of developmental problems not only create the best prognosis, but save untold future expenses. Parent-infant assessment is preventative. It helps parents and professionals know when there is a developmental problem.