At CNS Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive early childhood developmental evaluations to assess cognitive, language, motor, social-emotional, and adaptive skills in young children. Early identification of developmental delays or challenges allows for timely interventions that support learning, socialization, and overall well-being. Whether you’re a parent noticing differences in your child’s development or seeking guidance on school readiness, our evaluations offer clarity, insight, and practical recommendations to help your child thrive.

What is an Early Childhood Developmental Evaluation?

An early childhood developmental evaluation is designed to assess a child’s developmental milestones, strengths, and areas of difficulty across key domains. These evaluations help determine whether a child may have developmental delays, neurodevelopmental conditions (such as Autism or ADHD), or learning challenges that could impact their growth. Early assessments ensure that families receive the right interventions, therapies, and resources during the critical early years of development.

Child and teddy bear representing developmental evaluations in Reston and Fairfax

Why Seek an Early Childhood Developmental Evaluation?

An evaluation can provide valuable insights for children who experience:

  • Speech and language delays (limited vocabulary, difficulty forming sentences, unclear speech).
  • Challenges with social interactions (limited eye contact, difficulty engaging in play, trouble understanding social cues).
  • Fine and gross motor delays (struggles with handwriting, coordination, balance, or movement).
  • Difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity (early signs of ADHD or executive functioning challenges).
  • Behavioral concerns (frequent meltdowns, difficulty with transitions, emotional dysregulation).
  • Delays in self-care or adaptive skills (difficulty dressing, feeding, following routines, or engaging in age-appropriate tasks).
  • Concerns about Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental conditions.

Early evaluations can help families better understand their child’s unique strengths and challenges, ensuring that necessary supports and interventions are implemented before difficulties become more pronounced.

Our Evaluation Process

Parent/Caregiver Interview

A detailed discussion of developmental history, concerns, and behavioral patterns.

Standardized Testing

Age-appropriate assessments of cognitive, social-emotional, communication, and motor skills.

Behavioral Observations

Play-based or structured activities to assess how the child interacts with their environment and others.

Rule-Out Assessments

Screening for overlapping conditions such as Autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing difficulties, or learning challenges.

Feedback Session & Report

A comprehensive explanation of findings, recommendations for therapies (speech, occupational, behavioral therapy), and support in accessing early intervention programs or school accommodations.

Parent/Caregiver Interview

A detailed discussion of developmental history, concerns, and behavioral patterns.

Standardized Testing

Age-appropriate assessments of cognitive, social-emotional, communication, and motor skills.

Behavioral Observations

Play-based or structured activities to assess how the child interacts with their environment and others.

Rule-Out Assessments

Screening for overlapping conditions such as Autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing difficulties, or learning challenges.

Feedback Session & Report

A comprehensive explanation of findings, recommendations for therapies (speech, occupational, behavioral therapy), and support in accessing early intervention programs or school accommodations.

The Importance of Early Identification & Intervention

Capturing developmental challenges early can have a profound impact on a child’s future. Research has consistently shown that early intervention leads to significantly better outcomes in cognitive, academic, social, and emotional development (Dawson et al., 2010; National Research Council, 2001).

  • Brain Development & Neuroplasticity: The early years are a time of rapid brain growth. When weaknesses in language, motor skills, executive functioning, attention, or social interactions are recognized early, targeted interventions can help rewire the brain, leading to improved learning, communication, and emotional regulation (Huttenlocher, 2002).

  • Improved Long-Term Outcomes: Studies have found that children who receive early developmental support—such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and specialized learning interventions—are more likely to meet developmental milestones, succeed academically, and develop strong social skills compared to those who receive delayed diagnoses and interventions (Zwaigenbaum et al., 2015).

  • Access to Accommodations & Support Services: Identifying challenges early allows parents and educators to create structured, individualized learning plans that cater to the child’s specific needs. Without early intervention, children may face increased frustration, behavioral difficulties, and missed learning opportunities, which can impact self-esteem, peer relationships, and long-term academic success. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2023) emphasizes that early intervention reduces the need for more intensive support services later in life and helps children develop skills that set the foundation for lifelong success.

How Early Childhood Evaluations Can Help

  • Identify developmental strengths and challenges early to guide targeted interventions.
  • Provide recommendations for speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, or educational support.
  • Guide parents in fostering their child’s development through structured strategies at home and school.
  • Support access to early intervention services, special education programs, and school accommodations.
  • Help caregivers, educators, and therapists develop appropriate, individualized support plans.
Child looking at letters; Early Childhood Developmental Evaluations
Child drawing a picture; Early Childhood Developmental Evaluations

Who Can Benefit from an Early Childhood Developmental Evaluation?

  • Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 2-5) – Children who may be showing early signs of developmental delays, social difficulties, or school readiness concerns.
  • Parents & Caregivers – Those seeking guidance on their child’s development and available support services.
  • Educators & Pediatricians – Professionals referring children for early intervention services and specialized learning support.

Why Choose CNS Behavioral Health?

Dr. Bishay’s expertise in early childhood development, neurodevelopmental disorders, and educational advocacy ensures a thorough, compassionate, and strengths-based approach to each evaluation. Identifying challenges early allows for timely interventions, greater progress, and improved long-term outcomes for children.

At CNS Behavioral Health, we recognize that every child develops at their own pace, but when concerns arise, early assessment can make a life-changing difference. Our evaluations not only provide diagnostic clarity but also equip families with personalized strategies, actionable recommendations, and advocacy support to ensure their child receives the best possible care and resources at home, in school, and in the community.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t wait—early intervention is key.

Early Childhood Developmental Evaluations

Get Started

Contact CNS Behavioral Health today to schedule an early childhood developmental evaluation and take the first step toward a brighter future for your child.