Developmental screening is a process that helps parents and caregivers look more closely at a child’s development by area (physical/communication and language, social-emotional, and cognitive). Reviewing a child’s developmental milestones through screening can help develop a better picture and understanding of where they are in their development, and whether they could benefit from additional supports to ensure healthy growth.

Children develop at different rates. Developmental milestones are guidelines for what most children can do by a certain age. If you have questions, or are concerned about your child’s development, a good place to start is with your pediatrician. Here is a guide to help you talk to the doctor about your child’s development.

For Milford families, you can also contact Gateways Community Services directly if you are interested in free developmental screening for your young child (up to 3 years old). For children 3 years or older, contact the Milford School District and ask about the Child Find screening program: Melissa.macdonald@milfordk12.org.

If, based on the developmental screening, your child is found to have a developmental delay, they may be eligible to receive free or low-cost play-based early supports and services to help.

Links to Providers & Resources

  • For Milford families, Gateways Community Services is the region’s agency for developmental supports, screenings, and supports for individuals who experience developmental disabilities. Call Gateways to request a free developmental screening for your child age birth up to 3 years.
  • Milford School District provides free developmental screening for children 3 years and older through their Child Find program. If your child is already in school and you have questions about their development and learning, contact your child’s teacher.
  • Milford Thrives has free child development and milestone resources at the office. Stop by anytime Monday – Friday during office hours or contact us to make an appointment or request materials.
  • Waypoint Family Resource Center’s home visiting program can also help parents and caregivers better understand their child’s development.
  • The CDC also offers a free Milestone Tracker app.
  • VROOM is a free and parent-friendly app that provides caregivers with daily tips on how to best support children’s healthy development throughout the day.
  • Looking for additional support for a child who has been diagnosed with developmental delays or a disability? NH Family Voices is staffed by parents of children and young adults with experience.

Autism Resources

Allied Health: Speech & Language, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy providers nearby:

 

Can’t find who/what you’re looking for? Use the search function above or email us: info@milfordkidsthrive.org.

Have a resource you’d like to recommend? We welcome your suggestions — please email us.

Developmental Milestones

How your child plays, learns, speaks, acts, and moves offers important clues about their development. Developmental milestones are things most children can do by a certain age. Every child is different of course…

Screening & Early Supports

Children develop at different rates. If you are concerned about your child’s development, developmental screening is a process that helps caregivers understand where children are in the various areas of development and whether they could benefit from support …