Developmental Delays in Preschool Children: Assessment Over Time

Abstract

A 3‐year study yielded data on the characteristics and progress of preschool children with developmental delays of uncertain aetiology. Children were tested at six‐month intervals in their homes using standard developmental measures (Bayley, McCarthy, Gesell, Sequenced Inventory of Communication Development); additional information about children and families was gathered by personal interview. Findings support the use of standardized assessment techniques for determining developmental level of preschool delayed children. For the group as a whole there was stability of performance over time, but the rates of change varied according to child. Delays in developmental domains were frequently associated with social behavioural and adjustment problems. Some relationship was found between aetiology and rate of development. Analyses across time suggest that three assessments are needed before confident prediction can be made about developmental rate for individual children.