As a child care provider, you are familiar with typical development in young children. Because you spend many hours each day with the same children, you may be in a position to be the first to notice a potential developmental delay, chronic illness, or disability.
If you suspect a child might need further assessment, your first step is to talk calmly with the parent. Point out the specific issue you have noticed. Give examples if possible. Compare notes with the parents. Ask if they have seen the same issues at home. Talk together about what to do next. You may suggest that they visit the baby’s pediatrician to check out the issue. Suggest articles to read, and help them identify community professionals as resources. Be a compassionate listener. Hearing that there may be something wrong with their child may be very upsetting.
For more on this topic, check out the Better Kid Care America article on communicating concerns about children's development with parents.
