What is a developmental Assessment?

Designed for ages birth to six

Our developmental assessment services at therightfit are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of a child’s unique strengths, challenges, and developmental needs from birth to age six. Conducted via tele-health or in the comfort of the family’s home, this assessment spans all developmental areas, including cognitive, communication, motor, adaptive, and social-emotional skills. Typically lasting 5-6 hours, our assessment process is individualized to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for the child.

At therightfit, our specialists use their expertise, including specialized training in early differences in sensory processing, play and communication skills. We provide the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) for early autism screening starting at 16 months, which helps identify early signs and guide early intervention services.

Based on the assessment results, we provide detailed recommendations and referrals. We work closely with the family to connect them to relevant support. This comprehensive, child-centered strength based approach ensures that families feel confident and informed about their service options, so they can lead the way in their child’s developmental journey.

  • Divided into gross motor skills (using large muscle groups for activities like crawling, walking, and jumping) and fine motor skills (using smaller muscles for activities like grasping, drawing, and stacking), motor development reveals how children use their bodies to explore and interact with their surroundings. Motor skills are crucial for daily activities and play.

  • Cognitive development refers to a child’s ability to think, learn, and solve problems. It includes skills such as memory, attention, reasoning, and understanding concepts. Observing how a child explores their environment, uses objects purposefully, and engages in problem-solving activities provides insight into their cognitive growth.

  • This area assesses both expressive (speaking and communicating) and receptive (understanding language) skills. It includes a child’s ability to use words, gestures, and sounds to express themselves, follow directions, and engage in conversations. Early language and social interactions are critical markers of development that contribute to long-term success in school and life.

  • Sensory processing assesses how children interpret and respond to sensory information from their environment, such as sounds, sights, textures, and movement. Sensory development plays an essential role in helping children feel comfortable, organized, and able to focus in their daily interactions.

  • This area involves a child’s ability to form relationships, express and regulate emotions, and navigate social situations. Social-emotional development includes skills like sharing, empathy, self-soothing, and cooperation. Observing a child’s interactions with family, friends, and caregivers provides valuable insight into their social readiness and emotional resilience.

  • Adaptive skills are the practical abilities children need to take care of themselves and respond to everyday tasks, including feeding, dressing, toileting, and following routines. These skills are essential for independence and increase as children develop their motor, cognitive, and social abilities.