From the first words spoken to the first steps taken, the stages of a child's development are always exciting times for parents to witness. However, when your child displays signs that his or her development may be delayed, these simple milestones may be the source of great anxiety for parents and caregivers.
At the Olson Huff Center of Mission Children's Hospital, our specialists use integrated medical, behavioral and therapy services combined with guidance and support for you and your family. Our goal is to provide parents and caregivers the tools necessary to cope with and, in time, overcomes their child's delays.
For more information call 828-213-17800 or 1-800-377-9251.
Symptoms
Common symptoms that may indicate a Developmental Delay include:
- Child not meeting expected developmental milestones
- Child not sitting up by eight months
- Child not walking by 18 months
- Child not saying words by 12 months or putting two words together by two years.
Diagnosis
At Mission Children's Hospital, our focus is on early diagnosis and intervention. Children may be referred by their primary care doctor to Mission's Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics practice or directly to the Olson Huff Center's Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy or Speech Therapy practices. Once referred, we clarify the diagnosis by:
- Examining the child's comprehensive medical history;
- Careful observation, interaction and play with the child;
- Physical examination;
- Standardized tests; and
- Imaging, lab tests or other procedures may be done if needed. After careful evaluation, we will discuss our findings and recommendations with you and your family and establish an inpidualized treatment plan to address your child's needs.
Our Services
Our team of physicians, nurse practitioners, social workers and psychologists, work together to develop a treatment plan to improve your child's quality of life. We incorporate the most suitable treatments, including medical treatment, psychological and behavioral therapy, developmental therapy and rehabilitation, and design the plan best suited to address the unique needs of your child. Services include:
- Diagnostic services including physical examination of child, standardized testing, imaging and lab tests
- Supportive family counseling
- Behavioral health services\
- Developmental therapies
- Expert management of medications
In addition, Mission's Family Support Network can assist you and your family by providing educational materials about your child's diagnosis, facilitating the application process for community services and by putting you in touch with other families in similar circumstances.
Outcomes to Expect
While every situation varies, parents can expect meaningful gains in their child's development and improved functioning - at home, at school and in the community. Parents will gain a clearer understanding of their child, the role of family participation in treatment and improved coordination of care. Possible outcomes include:
- Improvements in motor function, including large motor, fine motor and feeding difficulties
- Improvements in communication, speech and language skill
- Building self-help skills and independence
Referral and Contact Information
We see children by referral only. Please talk to your physician if you believe your child could benefit from our services. Physicians can download the referral form at missionreferrals.org. Complete and fax the referral form, along with the child's medical records and pertinent information. For more information call 828-213-17800 or 1-800-377-9251.
