How can I effectively screen for developmental delays in preschool-aged children during consultations?

To effectively screen for developmental delays in preschool-aged children during consultations, use a combination of parent-completed questionnaires and direct developmental assessments tailored to the child's age and risk factors. For children around 2 years (corrected age), tools like the Parent Report of Children's Abilities – Revised (PARCA-R) or suitable alternatives should be used to identify risks of global developmental delay, learning disabilities, or language problems. For children at 4 years (uncorrected age), especially those born preterm before 28 weeks' gestation, conduct a face-to-face developmental assessment that includes parent questionnaires such as the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) 48-month questionnaire, review previous assessments, and use standardised IQ tests like the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scales of Intelligence (WPPSI). During consultations, always discuss parental concerns, check for developmental problems including motor, speech, language, behavioural, and sensory issues, and measure growth parameters. Correct for gestational age up to 2 years when assessing development. If developmental problems are suspected, refer promptly to appropriate local pathways and share information with parents, healthcare teams, and with permission, education and social care services. Enhanced surveillance and multidisciplinary support should be provided for children born preterm or with identified risk factors. This approach ensures comprehensive screening and early identification of developmental delays in preschool-aged children ¹.