In pediatrics, which assessment tool helps in identifying children at risk for developmental delays?

The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) is a widely used screening tool designed specifically to identify children who may be at risk for developmental delays. It assesses a variety of developmental areas, including communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving, and personal-social skills. The tool is structured as a series of age-specific questionnaires completed by parents or caregivers, making use of direct observations and knowledge of the child's typical behavior.

This approach provides valuable insights into the child's developmental progress and helps professionals determine whether further evaluation or early intervention might be necessary. By focusing on a broad range of developmental milestones, the ASQ effectively highlights potential concerns that may warrant additional assessment or support.

In contrast, other tools mentioned, such as the Child Behavior Checklist, primarily focus on emotional and behavioral assessments rather than developmental milestones. The Developmental Profile, while also evaluating various development aspects, may not be as standardized or widely implemented as the ASQ for routine screening purposes. The Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, on the other hand, is an intelligence assessment tool that measures cognitive abilities rather than identifying developmental delays. Therefore, the ASQ is the most appropriate choice for screening children's developmental progress in pediatrics.