What is a common tool used in the screening process?

The Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) is widely recognized as a common tool used in the screening process, particularly for young children. The ASQ is developed to assess various developmental domains, such as communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving, and personal-social skills in children from one month to 5.5 years of age. This user-friendly tool is instrumental in identifying potential developmental delays early on, allowing for timely interventions and support. It relies on parent-reported insights, which makes it effective for understanding a child's behavior and skills in a natural home environment.

Other tools like the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and intelligence tests, such as the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, serve different purposes. The CBCL focuses on behavioral and emotional problems rather than general developmental screening. In contrast, the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler scales are designed specifically for assessing cognitive abilities rather than broader developmental milestones, making them less suitable for initial developmental screenings. Therefore, the ASQ stands out for its primary role in the pediatric screening process.