What to do when the answer is- 

"I am noticing something that concerns me"

____

If a behavior is only seen occasionally, it is usually part of typical development; concern grows when it is frequent, consistent, and noticeable to others as well.

Questioning what you see is a natural and responsible part of being a parent! Early questions are very common and often reassure parents once explored.

Plan of Action

Write it down- What am I seeing? When? Think about signs to watch for how often?

Capture it- Photos, videos during those everyday moments. 

Trust yourself- You can use a checklist, but you don’t need to. Your concern is enough!

Take action- Use your parental radar and seek advice from family/friends; pediatrician or seek early intervention- all you need is your concern. Don't let anyone dismiss your concerns. You can contact early intervention with just your concern to seek guidance! You don't need anyone else's permission.

Remember- Seeking help isn’t saying something is wrong; it's saying “ I want to understand my child’s needs,” "I want some guidance and reassurance."

Create an Action Card :

"My Action Card" 

□ I'm noticing: ________________ 

□ It's been happening for: ________________ 

□ It happens: ________________ 

□ What I've tried: ________________ 

□ My next step:

• Early Intervention: [local number]

• Developmental screening: [local resource]

• I need support navigating this: [parent resource line]

There's no such thing as 'too early' to ask for support. The earlier, the better."

Created by Dr Beth Elenko

What is Early Intervention? 

• Is the term used to describe services and supports available to infants and young children and their families who may be concerned or have a known developmental delay.

• May include occupational, physical, or speech therapy, special education, and other eligible services based on the unique needs of your child and family.

• Programs are available in every state and territory. These publicly funded programs provide services for free or at reduced cost for any child who is eligible.

From Center for Disease Control (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/early-intervention/index.html  

Early Intervention Contact Information

Click here to find early intervention contact information for your state or territory.

From New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Early Intervention

Contact your local Early Intervention Program in your state. 

Anyone can refer a child, even YOU as parent

Call them with your concerns.