Talking to the doctor is the first step toward getting help for your child if you are concerned about his or her development ( how your child plays , learns , speaks , acts , or moves ). Don ’ t wait . Acting early can make a real difference !

1 Make an appointment with your child ’ s doctor

2

• When you schedule the appointment , tell the doctor ’ s staff you have concerns about your child ’ s development that you would like to discuss with the doctor .

Complete a milestone checklist

• Before the appointment , complete a milestone checklist by downloading CDC ’ s free Milestone Tracker mobile app from the App Store or Google Play or printing a paper checklist from www . cdc . gov / Milestones .

• Write down your questions and concerns ; take these with you to the doctor ’ s appointment .

3 During the doctor ’ s appointment

• Show the completed milestone checklist to the doctor > If your child is missing milestones , point them out , and share any other concerns that you have . > If your child is not missing milestones but you still have concerns , tell the doctor about them .

• Ask the doctor for developmental screening for your child > Developmental screening is recommended whenever there is a concern .

It gives the doctor more information to figure out how best to help your child . > For more information about developmental screening , go to www . cdc . gov / DevScreening .

• Ask the doctor if your child needs further developmental evaluation > If your child does , ask for a referral and call right away . If you have difficulty getting an appointment , let the doctor know .

4 Make sure you understand what the doctor tells you , and what to do next

• Before you leave the appointment , check the notes you have written and make sure all of your questions have been answered .

• If you do not understand something , ask the doctor to explain it again or in a different way .

• When you get home , review your notes and follow the steps the doctor has given you . Remember , you can always contact the doctor ’ s office if you have any questions .

You Know Your Child Best

If your child ’ s doctor has told you to “ wait and see ,” but you feel uneasy about that advice :

Talk with others ( doctor , teacher , another provider ) to get a second opinion

AND

Call for a free evaluation to find out if your child can get free or low-cost services that can help .

• If your child is under age 3 : Call your state ’ s early intervention program . Find the phone number at www . cdc . gov / FindEI .

• If your child is age 3 or older : Call the local public elementary school .

You do not need a doctor ’ s referral to have your child evaluated for services .

Find more information , including what to say when you make these important calls , visit www . cdc . gov / Concerned .

Don ’ t wait . Acting early can make a real difference ! www . cdc . gov / ActEarly 1-800-CDC-INFO ( 1-800-232-4636 )

Learn the Signs . Act Early .

OURHEALTHNWA . COM 14 APRIL 2025 | HEALTHY KIDS ISSUE