Developmental Screenings for Infants: What to Expect in the First Year

The first year of your baby’s life is filled with exciting milestones, from their first smile to their first steps.

Doctor examines a smiling baby sitting on a white table in a bright office.

At Just Kids Pediatrics in Newark, DE, Dr. Kerry Kirifides and Dr. Sonia Shastry understand the importance of monitoring your child’s growth and development during this critical time. Developmental screenings are a key part of infant care, helping to ensure your baby is meeting important milestones.


What Are Developmental Screenings?

Developmental screenings are assessments that evaluate how your baby is growing and developing in key areas such as motor skills, communication, social interaction, and problem-solving abilities. These screenings are typically conducted during well-baby visits and are designed to track your child’s progress over time. This proactive approach ensures that any potential concerns are addressed early, giving your child the best possible start in life.


What to Expect During the First Year

During your baby’s first year, developmental screenings are typically conducted at regular intervals, often aligning with well-baby checkups. At each visit, your pediatrician will assess your baby’s progress in areas such as physical growth, motor skills, and social-emotional development. For example, at the two-month visit, your pediatrician may look for signs that your baby is starting to smile, respond to sounds, and follow objects with their eyes.


By six months, they’ll check for milestones like rolling over, sitting with support, and babbling. At the one-year mark, they’ll evaluate skills such as standing, taking steps, and using simple words. These screenings also provide an opportunity for parents to discuss any questions or concerns about their baby’s development. Whether it’s about feeding, sleep patterns, or reaching milestones, your pediatrician is there to provide guidance and reassurance.


Why Developmental Screenings Matter

Early detection is key when it comes to addressing developmental delays or challenges. Developmental screenings help identify potential issues early, allowing for timely interventions that can make a significant difference in your child’s growth and learning. At Just Kids Pediatrics, Dr. Kirifides and Dr. Shastry work closely with families to create individualized care plans when needed. If additional support is required, they can connect you with trusted specialists and resources to ensure your baby receives the care they need.


Schedule Your Baby’s Developmental Screening

If you’re looking for a pediatrician to guide you through your baby’s first year, Just Kids Pediatrics in Newark, DE, is here to support your family. Call us today at (302) 918-6400 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kerry Kirifides or Dr. Sonia Shastry. Together, we can ensure your baby’s first year is filled with healthy growth and happy milestones.

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