The infant or young child with developmental delay.

Abstract

The practitioner should attempt to identify the infant and young child with developmental delay as early as possible, so that appropriate services can be provided. Ongoing surveillance is required, rather than one-time screening. The practitioner should also serve as an advocate for children with developmental delay. He or she should ensure that appropriate services exist within the child's community and that they are readily accessible. This requires ongoing communication not only with the child and the family, but also with schools and community agencies.