Developmental and Mental Health Screenings in Rosharon, TX
Every child grows at their own pace, but there are key milestones that help us understand how they are developing.
At Primary Steps Pediatric Clinic, we are committed to early detection and supportive care through regular developmental and mental health screenings. By identifying potential concerns early, Dr. Jerry strives to guide your family with compassionate, evidence-based care to help your child live a healthy, happy life.
What Are Developmental and Mental Health Screenings?
Developmental screenings are designed to assess whether your child is meeting age-appropriate milestones in speech, movement, play, social interaction, and problem-solving. Mental health screenings, on the other hand, look at the overall emotional well-being, including how your child is coping with school, family, friendships, and the changes that come with each stage of development.
Dr. Jerry offers screenings during well-child visits based on your child's age and unique needs. She uses nationally recognized tools like the Ages & Stages Questionnaires (ASQ), the M-CHAT for autism screening, and the PHQ-9 for depression in teens. She also offers ADHD screenings starting at age six if concerns arise, and may screen for anxiety in preteens and teens when appropriate. These tools are designed to be parent-friendly, simple, and meaningful.
What Can You Expect?
During a developmental screening or mental health screening, Dr. Jerry will ask you about any symptoms or concerns and will speak with your child using age-appropriate language to have a better understanding of their specific needs. She will review your child's medical history and perform a thorough exam to ensure any particular concerns are unrelated to underlying health conditions. Dr. Jerry may observe your child's behavior, ask you about your observations, and request feedback from teachers and other caretakers who spend time with your child.
Dr. Jerry takes the time to explain what each screening means and how it fits into your child's overall health. She values your input as a parent and partners with you to fully support your child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
If any of your child's screenings reveal an area of concern, Dr. Jerry will talk with you about next steps. Sometimes that means close monitoring of your child, or making treatment recommendations, including referrals for speech therapy, counseling, behavior therapy, social skills training, or seeing a psychiatrist for further evaluation or support. Dr. Jerry is always happy to answer questions, address your concerns, and work alongside you to set the stage for a healthy, happy life.
Your Child's Developmental and Mental Health Screening Schedule
Dr. Jerry follows guidelines from Texas Health Steps and the American Academy of Pediatrics to screen children at key developmental stages. Here's a look at when these screenings typically take place:
| Age (Months/Years | ||
|---|---|---|
| 9 Months | Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening | To assess developmental progress in key areas such as communication and motor skills |
| 18 Months |
Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) |
To evaluate developmental milestones and screen for early indicators of autism spectrum disorder |
| 24 Months |
Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) |
To further assess developmental progress and continue screening for autism spectrum disorder |
| 30 Months | Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening | To monitor ongoing developmental progress |
| 36 Months | Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening | To assess developmental readiness for preschool years |
| 48 Months | Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening | To evaluate continued developmental progress in preschool-aged children |
| 60 Months | Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) Developmental Screening | To assess developmental skills in preparation for kindergarten |
| 12 - 18 Years |
Patient Health Questionnaire - 9 (PHQ-9) Depression Screening CRAFFT Questionnaire substance abuse screening tool (CRAFFT) |
To screen for symptoms of depression and assess risk for substance use |
| As Needed | ADHD Screening | Starting at age 6 |
| As Needed | Anxiety Screening | In the teen years |
Developmental and Mental Health Screenings Near Me in Rosharon, TX
Early detection is critical to ensure your child gets the needed support for the best possible outcomes. At Primary Steps Pediatric Clinic, we are proud to provide families with a proactive, caring approach to developmental and emotional well-being. If you'd like to learn more about our comprehensive screenings, we invite you to call 346-692-9161 to schedule an appointment today.