What is Developmental Screening?

In early intervention, evaluation and assessment should not be confused with the process of screening.  Screening includes procedures or activities to identify children who may need further evaluation in order to determine the existence of a delay in development or a particular disability.  Screening involves the administration of appropriate instruments (reliable, valid, and designed for the purpose of screening) by qualified personnel in order to determine whether further more comprehensive evaluation is warranted.  In Maryland, numerous community partners may provide developmental screening including pediatricians, early childhood mental health consultants, early intervention, and Head Start staff.  These screenings are provided prior to a referral early intervention. If concerns are noted, this developmental screening may be the trigger for a referral to the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program.

The 2011 revised federal regulations allow Local Infants and Toddlers Programs (LITPs) to implement optional screening policies and procedures as part of the evaluation process [34 CFR §303.320].   LITPs who choose to implement screening practices may elect to screen some or all children after referral.

Parent permission must be obtained before the LITP can screen a child [COMAR 13A.13.01.04.B(2)(c); 34 CFR §303.320(a)(1)(ii)].   In addition, parents may request a full evaluation and assessment at any time during the screening process, even if the child has passed the developmental screening [COMAR 13A.13.01.04.B(5); 34 CFR §303.320(a)(3)].  It is important to note that screening does not extend the 45-day timeline.  If a child has not passed his/her developmental screening or if a parent of a child who has passed his/her screening requests a full evaluation and assessment, the evaluation, assessment, and initial IFSP must all be completed within 45 days of the referral [COMAR 13A.13.01.04.B(6); 34 CFR §303.310(a)].