Our Services :: Follow-Up Care :: Developmental Evaluation

The focus of the first examination is developmental. Children adopted from abroad who have lived in foster care or orphanages may be developmentally delayed, but with time for adaptation, most of these children catch up quickly. Often consistent nutrition and a loving home can facilitate a child's development. After a 3-6 month transition period, which includes several developmental screening examinations, a developmental assessment is more representative of the child's level. Referrals for early intervention are made after a sufficient time for adaptation is allowed.

Early Intervention

Children adopted from abroad may have short term and /or long term developmental delays including gross motor, fine motor-adaptive, cognitive, and language delays. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and special education teaching can be provided by the Early Intervention Program in the county where you live. The Early Intervention Program has been helping families find homes and community-based services for children with special needs for over ten years. This is a program financed through federal funds and usually managed by county departments of health in all fifty states. Each state has individualized guidelines for evaluation and distribution of services. The services are free for children from birth through three years of age. After the child turns three, these services are then provided through the school district special education departments.

When Dr. Aronson performs the initial medical and developmental evaluation for an adopted child who has just arrived in the U.S., she determines whether the child should be further evaluated for developmental delays. She initiates the early intervention referral with a personal phone call to the county where you live and reviews the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), which summarizes your child's evaluation. Dr. Aronson will advocate for you and your child for the provision of appropriate services.

Fee Schedule available online.

My office manager will work with you to help you receive the fullest possible reimbursement from your health insurance company, but payment in full is required at the time of service.