Learn the Signs. Act Early
From birth to 5 years, your child should reach milestones in how he plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves. Track your child’s development and act early if you have a concern.
Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ-3)
Many teachers and parents are concerned about the impacts of prolonged social distancing and pandemic restrictions on child development. Data demonstrate that many children are struggling; the early identification of developmental delays is key to helping these children thrive.
The Pointe Coupee Early Childhood Coalition has a received the Young Children with Disabilities Grant from the Louisiana Department of Education to support child care centers to identify, support, and remediate developmental delays.
What is the Ages and Stages 3rd edition (ASQ-3)
ASQ 3 is a set of questionnaires about children’s development. It has been used for more than 20 years to make sure children are developing well. A screening provides a quick look at how children are doing in important areas, such as communication, physical ability, social skills, and problem-solving skills. ASQ-3 can help identify your child’s strengths as well as any areas where your child may need support.
As a parent or caregiver, you are the best source of information about your child. That’s why ASQ-3 questionnaires are designed to be filled out by you. You will only need 10–15 minutes. It’s that quick and easy. Here’s how ASQ-3 works:
• You will answer each question “yes,” “sometimes,” or “not yet,” based on what your child is able to do now. Your answers help show your child’s strengths and areas where he or she may need practice.
• To answer each question, you can try fun and simple activities with your child. These activities encourage your child to play, move around, and practice day-to-day skills.
• After you complete the questionnaire, a professional will share the results with you. If your child is developing without concerns, there is nothing more you will need to do.
You may try the next ASQ-3 age level as your child grows and learns new skills. There are 21 questionnaires that you can use with children from 1 month to 5½ years old. If your child has trouble with some skills, your program will help you with next steps. Finding delays or problems as early as possible supports young children’s healthy development.