Modern approaches to identifying developmental delays of young children in medical practice

Abstract

Purpose - to analyze and summarize the international experience of using developmental screening of children in the first years of life for early detection of developmental delays and to improve the effectiveness of correctional and developmental strategies, taking into account the achievements of modern medical science and practice.

The article presents modern approaches to the identification of developmental delays in young children in medical practice using screening tools, which makes it possible to establish risks in a timely manner and determine the route of assistance to the child. This model involves strengthening cooperation between specialists in the medical, psychological, pedagogical and social spheres among themselves, as well as between specialists and parents. The importance of involving parents in the screening process, using their knowledge to obtain comprehensive and complete information on the child’s development is emphasized. Medical and psychological-pedagogical support for the family of a child with health disorders and developmental delays, in the process of which specialists help parents create a special developmental environment at home to meet the child’s special needs in a timely manner, is the most effective form of comprehensive assistance, including early intervention services. Information is given on the international experience of implementing the screening system for the development of young children and its effectiveness. It is shown that the use of screening assessment and monitoring of development in medical practice creates prerequisites for identifying problems in development at an early stage, preserving health, improving the well-being of children and families that raise them, allows to increase the effectiveness of treatment or development activities, minimize existing and prevent secondary developmental delays in the child. It is shown that the involvement of primary health care doctors in developmental screening is an important stage in the formation of a system of modern care for young children and their families. The necessity of introducing developmental screening into everyday practice, into the work process of primary medical care specialists and ensuring their appropriate training has been proven.

No conflict of interest was declared by the authors.