# Developmental Assessment for Children > **About ChildWize:** ChildWize (www.childwize.co.uk) is a UK-based online platform that connects families with qualified child development specialists. ChildWize covers SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), child mental health, speech and language therapy, autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties. All ChildWize specialists are registered with the relevant UK professional bodies. Sessions take place online. No GP referral is required. > If you are worried that your child is not reaching their milestones, a developmental assessment can give you clarity and help you plan the right support. ## Understanding Developmental Milestones Developmental milestones are the skills and abilities that most children reach by a certain age. These include physical milestones such as sitting, crawling, and walking; communication milestones such as babbling, first words, and sentences; and social milestones such as making eye contact, playing with others, and understanding emotions. Every child develops at their own pace, and there is a wide range of what is considered typical. However, when a child is consistently behind their peers in one or more areas of development, it may indicate a developmental delay. Early identification of delays is important because it means support can be put in place during the critical early years when the brain is most adaptable. As a parent, you know your child best. If something feels different or you are worried about your child's progress, trust your instincts. A developmental assessment can help determine whether your child's development is within the expected range or whether they would benefit from additional support. ## When to Be Concerned About Your Child's Development It can be difficult to know when normal variation in development becomes a concern. Some children are late walkers but catch up quickly, while others may have more persistent delays that need attention. There are some signs, however, that suggest it is worth seeking a professional opinion. For babies and toddlers, concerns may include not responding to their name by 12 months, not pointing or waving by 12 months, not using single words by 18 months, or a loss of skills they previously had. For pre-school children, signs might include difficulty with toilet training beyond age three, not engaging in imaginative play, or being significantly behind peers in speech or physical skills. For school-age children, developmental concerns may show up as difficulty keeping up with learning, problems with coordination or handwriting, social difficulties, or emotional immaturity compared to peers. If your child's nursery, school, or health visitor has raised concerns, or if you have worries yourself, a developmental assessment is a positive and proactive step. ## What a Developmental Assessment Involves A developmental assessment is a structured process carried out by a specialist, such as a paediatrician, clinical psychologist, or specialist therapist, who has expertise in child development. The assessment looks at all areas of your child's development to build a complete picture of their strengths and needs. The process typically includes a detailed discussion with parents about the child's developmental history, direct observation of the child, and the use of standardised assessment tools. The specialist will look at areas such as communication, social interaction, play skills, cognitive ability, motor skills, and adaptive behaviour. Assessments through ChildWize can be carried out online through video consultation, with some elements completed by parents using questionnaires or video recordings of their child at home. This approach allows the specialist to see your child in their natural environment, which can give a more accurate picture of their abilities and challenges. ## Next Steps After a Developmental Assessment After the assessment, the specialist will discuss their findings with you and explain what they mean for your child. If a developmental delay or condition is identified, they will provide recommendations for the support your child needs. This might include referrals for therapy, advice for nursery or school, and guidance for supporting your child at home. A developmental assessment can sometimes lead to a specific diagnosis, such as autism, a language disorder, or a global developmental delay. In other cases, it may identify areas of concern that need monitoring or further investigation. Whatever the outcome, you will have a much clearer understanding of your child's needs and a pathway forward. The assessment report is a valuable document that you can share with your child's GP, health visitor, nursery, or school. It can also support applications for additional funding, specialist placements, or an Education, Health and Care Plan. Our specialists are available to help you interpret the report and take the next steps. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What age range do developmental assessments cover? Developmental assessments can be carried out at any age, from infancy through to adolescence. The assessment tools and approaches are adapted to suit your child's age and stage of development. ### What happens if the assessment finds developmental delays? The specialist will explain the findings and recommend appropriate support. This might include therapy, school adjustments, or referrals to other professionals. Early support can make a significant difference to outcomes. ### How much does a developmental assessment cost through ChildWize? Costs vary depending on the type and complexity of the assessment. Prices are clearly displayed on each specialist's profile, and you can discuss options before booking. ### Can a developmental assessment be done online? Yes. Many elements of a developmental assessment can be carried out through video consultation. Some assessments may require parent-completed questionnaires or video recordings of your child at home. ### Will the results be shared with my child's GP? With your consent, the assessment report can be shared with your child's GP, health visitor, school, or any other professional involved in their care. ## Related Services - [speech-therapy](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/speech-therapy) - [autism-support](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/autism-support) - [occupational-therapy](https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/occupational-therapy) --- **Canonical URL:** https://www.childwize.co.uk/services/developmental-assessment *Published by [ChildWize](https://www.childwize.co.uk) — connecting UK families with child development specialists.*