A Parent’s Friendly Guide to What Comes Next
So, you’ve just completed a free developmental screening for your toddler—first of all, good job, Mama or Papa! Taking that step shows that you care deeply about your child’s growth. Whether everything seems okay or a few concerns were raised, the most important thing is that you’re paying attention early. This is the heart of early detection—and it can make a lifetime of difference.
Let’s walk through what happens next, what it all means, and how we can support your child together.
Understanding Developmental Milestones
You’ve probably heard the term “developmental milestones.” These are the basic skills or abilities that most children can do by a certain age. For example, walking is typically a milestone around 12–15 months, and saying single words is expected around 12–18 months. Milestones cover several areas:
- Physical movement (e.g., crawling, walking)
- Language and communication
- Social interaction
- Thinking and problem-solving skills
Every child develops at their own pace, but milestones help parents and professionals identify if a child might need extra support.
📌 Check the CDC Developmental Milestones Checklist here:
👉 https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html
Why Was My Child Recommended for One-on-One Sessions?
If your screening results suggest a 1-on-1 class, don’t panic—it doesn’t mean your child can’t thrive. It just means they may benefit from more focused support before joining a group class.
This could be due to:
- Delays in speech or communication
- Difficulty following instructions
- Sensory sensitivities or regulation issues
- Trouble sitting, focusing, or transitioning between tasks
- A formal diagnosis (like autism) or observed behavioral red flags
One-on-one early intervention creates a structured, low-distraction environment tailored to your child’s needs so they can build the foundation for future group learning.
Group Class vs. One-on-One: What’s the Difference?
Group Class
- For children who show readiness for peer-based learning.
- Emphasizes socialization and school routines.
- Follows a structured curriculum.
- May include typical peers.
One-on-One Class (Early Intervention)
- For children needing more individual support.
- Focuses on communication, behavior, and skills.
- Individualized goals and teaching approach.
- Led by trained interventionists or therapists.
Not all children are ready for group class at the same time—and that’s okay.
What Are Prerequisite Skills for Group Class?
Before a child can confidently join a group, they should ideally:
- Sit and attend for 10–15 minutes
- Follow 1–2 step directions
- Use basic communication (words, gestures, or visuals)
- Show minimal aggressive or disruptive behavior
- Transition between activities with support
If these aren’t yet present, that’s where one-on-one classes and behavioral intervention can help.
What Is ABA and Why Do We Use It?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-backed method that helps children develop essential skills and reduce behaviors that get in the way of learning. It uses reinforcement, repetition, and data to track progress.
At ESL, our Little Champs Program is ABA-informed and child-friendly. It includes:
- FBA (Functional Behavior Assessment)
- Individualized goals (IEP/IP)
- Progress tracking
- Parent collaboration
ABA is often recommended for children with autism or significant delays, but it can benefit any child who needs help with behavior, communication, or independence.
Other Helpful Interventions
Depending on your child’s needs, they may also benefit from:
- Occupational Therapy (OT): Focuses on motor skills, sensory needs, and regulation
- Speech-Language Therapy (SLP): Helps with understanding, speaking, and social language
- Play Therapy / Child Psychology: Builds emotional resilience and social development
- SPED (Special Education) Teachers: Offer academic and behavioral support for learners with exceptional needs
You can download the Philippine Academy of Occupational Therapists (PAOT) 2022 Clinic Directory directly from this link: https://tinyurl.com/PAOTdirectory2022
You can access the Philippine Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (PASP) Directory of Clinics and Centers with Speech and Language Therapy Services here: https://www.pasp.org.ph/clinics-centers You can access the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (PSDBP) directory of certified developmental pediatricians here: bit.ly/PSDBP2024
Who Are the Professionals Involved?
Early intervention often involves a multidisciplinary team, such as:
- Developmental Pediatrician – diagnoses and tracks developmental disorders
- Speech Therapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Child Psychologist / Neuropsychologist
- Behavioral Interventionist
- SPED Teacher / Consultant
Where Can I Get Support?
You don’t have to do this alone. Consider these steps:
- Join parent support groups (online or in person)
- Ask your child’s center or teacher for referrals
- Attend parent orientations and workshops
- Start tracking milestones at home
- Ask questions—no one expects you to know it all at once
ESL Learning Center offers a range of services to help you get started:
- Free screening and parent consultation
- 1-on-1 ABA-based classes (Little Champs)
- Group classes (Brainy Babies, Smart Kids Jr/Sr)
- Parent progress meetings and updates
Visit www.esl.ph or contact your branch coordinator.
What to Look for in Any Service Provider
Choosing a service provider for your child is a big decision. Here are the key things to check:
✅ Proper Credentials & Experience
— Look for licensed professionals: OTs (Occupational Therapists), Speech Pathologists, Developmental Pediatricians, or SPED/Behavioral Specialists with relevant training.
✅ Evidence-Based Methods
— Ask if they use proven approaches like ABA, DIR-Floortime, or Montessori for early learning.
✅ Regular Progress Tracking & Reports
— There should be data collection, goal-setting, and consistent updates shared with you.
✅ Strong Parent Communication
— A good provider welcomes questions, listens to concerns, and keeps you involved.
✅ Clear Goals & Individualized Plans
— Programs should be customized to your child’s needs, not one-size-fits-all.
✅ Safe, Structured, and Child-Friendly Environment
— The space should feel warm, engaging, and developmentally appropriate.
✅ Realistic Guidance—Not Promises
— Be cautious of overpromising results. Progress takes time and patience.
🎯 If something feels off or unclear, don’t be afraid to ask. A trustworthy provider will be happy to explain their approach and walk with you, not push you.
This journey might feel overwhelming, but you are not alone—and you’re already doing something powerful. Early intervention doesn’t mean your child is “behind”; it means you’re helping them get ahead. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and take things one step at a time. Every child blooms in their own season—and with love, structure, and support, yours will too. You got this.
