Watching your child grow, learn, and explore the world is one of the greatest joys of parenthood. But it’s also natural to wonder, “Is my child meeting their milestones?”
For many parents in Miami, FL, questions about speech, play, or social behaviors lead to one important next step: a developmental screening.
Developmental screenings help identify early signs of delays or differences in areas like communication, movement, social skills, and learning. Early identification allows families to access support and resources sooner, which can make a lasting difference in a child’s growth and independence.
What Is a Developmental Screening?
A developmental screening is a brief assessment that helps determine whether your child is reaching age-appropriate milestones. It’s not a diagnosis, rather, a first step to help decide if a more in-depth evaluation may be needed.
Pediatricians and early childhood professionals often use standardized tools like the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) or the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) to assess your child’s communication, movement, problem-solving, and social skills.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), all children should receive developmental screenings at 9, 18, and 30 months, and autism-specific screenings at 18 and 24 months.
Why Early Screening Matters
Early screening can make all the difference. Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes for children with developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). When developmental differences are identified early, families can access therapies and supports that strengthen communication, behavior, and learning skills. The earlier we know, the sooner we can help.
Common Developmental Screening Tools
Different screening tools are used based on the child’s age, needs, and setting. Some of the most widely used include:
- Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3) – Parent-completed questionnaire that looks at communication, motor, and problem-solving skills.
- ASQ:SE-2 – This tool screens for social-emotional development.
- M-CHAT-R/F – Common autism screening for toddlers between 16–30 months.
- CAST (Childhood Autism Spectrum Test) – Designed for children ages 4–11, CAST helps identify traits associated with autism in school-aged children. It’s often used in schools or primary care settings to determine whether a formal evaluation may be needed.
- Denver Developmental Screening Test II – Evaluates personal-social, fine motor, language, and gross motor development.
Most screenings take only 5–10 minutes and can be completed during a regular pediatric visit.
Developmental Screening Options in Miami, FL
Miami offers a variety of resources for families seeking developmental screenings or evaluations. Below are several reputable options:
- Nicklaus Children’s Hospital – Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics: Nicklaus Children’s Hospital provides comprehensive developmental screenings and evaluations for children with speech delays, learning concerns, or behavioral differences.
- University of Miami (UHealth) – Interdisciplinary Developmental Evaluation Service (IDES): The Mailman Center for Child Development offers multidisciplinary assessments involving pediatricians, psychologists, and therapists who collaborate with families and schools.
- South Miami Hospital – Child Development Center (Baptist Health): The South Miami Hospital provides early developmental screenings, speech and occupational therapy, and parent education.
- WeMind Institute: WeMind Institute offers neurodevelopmental and behavioral screenings for autism, ADHD, and learning differences. They serve children across the greater Miami area and accept multiple insurance plans.
How Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education Supports Autism Diagnosis & Beyond
At Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education, we know that developmental screening is only the first step. When screenings suggest the possibility of autism, our team helps guide families through the next stages, from consultation to diagnosis, and onward to support and therapy.
Here’s how we support you:
- Screening & Consultation
We offer trusted screening tools like M-CHAT-R (for toddlers) and CAST (for ages 4–11), and provide free consultations to help interpret results and decide whether a full evaluation is warranted. - Diagnostic Evaluation Pathway
If an evaluation is recommended, we connect you with diagnostic partners — such as Dr. Jazmin Burns, Psy.D., a neurodevelopmental psychologist who works closely with Cultivate to provide a virtual diagnostic evaluation.
The diagnostic process includes:
- An initial consultation to review the child’s history and developmental concerns
- A battery of standardized assessments covering language, cognition, motor skills, sensory processing, adaptive behaviors, and more
- A diagnosis and discussion of results, with clear feedback and next-step recommendations
- Guidance & support to help you access therapies, educational accommodations, and community resources
- Connecting to Services & Insurance Support
After receiving a formal diagnosis, it enables access to ABA therapy and other interventions, with insurance coverage in many cases (depending on the insurer). The diagnosis also helps when requesting school accommodations (IEPs, 504 Plans) and increases clarity for long-term planning. - Family Empowerment & Ongoing Support
We believe in empowering families through psychoeducation to help parents understand diagnoses, their child’s needs, and how to advocate for services.
Dr. Burns brings expertise in neurodiversity and is committed to helping families navigate school rights, community resources, and supports across home and school contexts.
Whether your family is just beginning to have concerns or already navigating diagnosis and therapy, Cultivate is here to guide, support, and advocate for you every step of the way.
Tips for Parents
- Trust your instincts: You know your child best.
- Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your pediatrician for a developmental screening.
- Document milestones: Keep track of what your child can do at each age.
- Follow up on referrals: Early action helps ensure timely support.
- Connect with local support groups: Miami has strong parent communities and autism advocacy groups ready to help.
How to Take Action After a Developmental Screening in Miami, Florida
Developmental screening gives parents peace of mind and ensures children get the support they need to thrive. Whether you’re concerned about your child’s speech, play, or behavior, or simply want to stay proactive, Miami offers exceptional developmental screening options through hospitals, clinics, and early intervention programs.
Early identification is the first step toward building confidence, growth, and lifelong learning for your child.
Our team at Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education is here to help you at every step of the way. Contact our team for more information.
