From birth to age 5 is an incredibly exciting time of growth and development. It is during these early years when children develop the foundations for social, emotional, physical, language and cognitive growth. During these years, you may also have many questions about your child’s development.

How do I know if my child is developing typically?

Children develop in similar patterns at similar times, and typically go through a sequence of accomplishments (crawl, stand, walk, run.) However, each child is unique and will therefore learn, grow and reach milestones according to their own timeline. Knowing when to be concerned and when not to be is important for parents and family members. Your child’s pediatrician is your partner in determining whether or not your child is developing typically. The Center for Disease Control has a wealth of information about child development and developmental milestones. Learn more or see how your child is progressing.

Virginia’s Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS)

The ELDS are a reference to help caregivers and educators understand what most children are able to know and to do, across different areas of development, by a given age. The document describes development across five overlapping age bands.

The overlap conveys the reality that children develop at different rates. Individual skills will appear, across children, at different times. Those differences are often consistent with “expected” or “typical” development. The ELDS are organized into 5 Areas of Development:

• Approaches to Play and Learning
• Social Emotional Learning
• Communication, Language, and Literacy Development
• Health and Physical Development
• Cognitive Development

All of these areas of development are interrelated, and growth in one area often influences or depends on development in other areas. No area is more important than another.

You can find information about Virginia’s Early Learning and Development Standards on the Early Childhood Standards & Instructional Supports website.

Learn the Signs. Act Early.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 6 children aged 3-17 has a developmental disability, but many of these children are not identified until they are school-aged. Early identification and intervention are crucial to help each child build new skills and reduce the need for costly interventions in the future. CDC’s Learn the Signs. Act Early. program provides early childhood educators, clinicians, and families with resources, materials and tools to improve early identification of children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Who do I contact to have my child screened?

If you have concerns about your baby, and would like to request a developmental screening, you can contact the Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia at 1-800-234-1448.

Early Intervention in Virginia

Early intervention services are services provided through the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) that are designed to meet the developmental needs of each child and their family, and provided in natural environments for the child (such as the home or child care setting.) Services are offered through two distinct programs: Part B (preschool children ages 3-5) and Part C (infants and toddlers ages 0-2). Learn more about Early Intervention in Virginia

Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers (Part C of IDEA)

From birth through age 2 a child is eligible to receive services if they:

• Have delayed functioning
• Exhibit atypical development or behavior
• Demonstrate a behavioral disorder that interferes with development, or
• Have a diagnosed physical or mental condition with a high probability of a resulting delay (even if no delay currently exists)

Early intervention services are provided by the Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia. Learn more, determine if your child is eligible, or find your local program.

Early Intervention for Preschool (Part B of IDEA)

Preschoolers may be eligible to receive early intervention services through the Early Childhood Special Education program of the Virginia Department of Education if they have one or more of 14 disability categories such as, but not limited to:

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Learning or emotional disability
• Visual, hearing or speech impairment
• Developmental delay

Early intervention services for preschool aged children are provided by local school districts. Learn more about early intervention for preschool children, determine if your child is eligible, or find more information on the 14 disability categories.

Your Rights under IDEA

The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) is a federal law that ensures children with disabilities receive services such as early intervention, special education, and related programs. Under this law, parents have specific special education rights, which are detailed in Virginia’s Procedural Safeguards Notice.

Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC)

The PEATC offers services and support for families as well as easy-to-understand, research-based information and training. You can find more information on the PEATC website.

Best Practice Recommendations for the Prevention of Suspension and Expulsion of Young Children

Research indicates that high-quality early learning is a critical first step to creating equity in access to early education and ensuring that all children begin kindergarten with an equal opportunity to learn. Suspensions and expulsions of young children deprive them of enriching learning experiences and have a negative impact that extends into grade school and beyond. This document provides recommendations regarding best practices in implementing developmentally appropriate experiences for children in child care programs (0-12 years) that can prevent suspension and expulsion.

Guidelines for the Prevention of Suspension and Expulsion for Young Children

Early Childhood Mental Health

Early childhood is a critical time for developing the foundations for later emotional and mental wellness. Adverse experiences have the potential to affect brain development, and contribute to developmental delays. The foundations for strong mental health include a safe environment, adequate nutrition, and positive interactions with caregivers. Mental health is part of overall health; a healthy child has a healthy body and a healthy mind. Learn more about mental wellness in early childhood.

Home Visiting

Early Impact Virginia is a group of public and non-profit programs that serve families of children from pregnancy through age 5. Their purpose is to deliver in-home parenting education and family support services that improve the health, social and educational outcomes of young children and their families. Learn more about Early Impact Virginia programs and resources.