Developmental and behavioral disorders in children can impact how they grow, learn, and interact with the world around them. These disorders may affect a child’s ability to communicate, focus, or build social skills, and they can present unique challenges for both the child and their family. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we are committed to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of developmental and behavioral disorders to ensure that children receive the support they need to reach their full potential. With convenient locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, we serve families throughout Atlanta with expert care and personalized treatment plans.
Understanding Developmental and Behavioral Disorders
Developmental and behavioral disorders are a group of conditions that involve delays or difficulties in various areas of development, such as speech, motor skills, social interaction, and learning abilities. These disorders can vary widely in severity, and symptoms may present at different stages of a child’s growth. Early intervention is crucial in helping children develop the necessary skills to succeed in school and everyday life. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with parents, caregivers, and specialists to address each child’s unique needs.
Dr. Sells is fantastic! We have been with her since our baby since her release from the NICU! Dr. Sells is very knowledgeable and patient! She has helped our baby love her visits to the doctor, even requesting to go see “Dr. Sells” without a scheduled appointment. Thank you for the special gifts (books) at each scheduled doctor’s visit! Perfect touch!
Signs of Developmental and Behavioral Disorders
It is important for parents to recognize early signs of developmental and behavioral disorders. Some common signs that may indicate a developmental or behavioral issue include:
Delayed speech or language development
If your child is not speaking or using language at the expected age, this could be a sign of a speech or language delay.
Difficulty focusing or paying attention
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have trouble focusing, following instructions, or sitting still for extended periods.
Challenges with social interactions
Difficulty in understanding social cues, forming relationships, or engaging in conversations may be indicative of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other social developmental issues.
Trouble with motor skills
Children who have difficulty with fine motor skills, such as holding a pencil or buttoning clothes, may have a developmental coordination disorder or motor delay.
Learning difficultie
s Struggling with reading, writing, math, or other academic skills could be a sign of a learning disability.
If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your child’s development, it’s important to seek professional guidance. Our team at Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine offers thorough evaluations and tailored treatment plans to address a wide range of developmental and behavioral disorders.
Common Developmental and Behavioral Disorders
We provide care for a variety of developmental and behavioral disorders, each of which may require different approaches to treatment. Our Atlanta pediatric medical team is experienced in diagnosing and managing the following conditions:
These conditions often require a multidisciplinary approach, including pediatricians, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and educational specialists. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we partner with specialists to ensure that each child receives comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.
Treatment for Developmental and Behavioral Disorders
Treatment for developmental and behavioral disorders varies depending on the specific diagnosis and the needs of each child. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where children can thrive, develop new skills, and overcome challenges. Common treatment approaches include:
Behavioral Therapy
This type of therapy helps children develop appropriate social, emotional, and behavioral skills. It can be especially helpful for children with ADHD, autism, or other behavioral challenges.
Speech and Language Therapy
For children with speech or language delays, speech therapy can help improve communication skills and language development.
Educational Support
Many children with developmental disorders benefit from individualized educational plans (IEPs) or other specialized education
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy can help children develop fine motor skills, improve coordination, and gain independence in daily activities.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of ADHD or other behavioral disorders. Our pediatricians work closely with families to monitor the effectiveness of medication and make any necessary adjustments.
Supporting Families Through the Journey
At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we understand that raising a child with a developmental or behavioral disorder can be challenging. That’s why we take a family-centered approach, offering resources, education, and support to help parents and caregivers navigate their child’s treatment journey. We work closely with families to ensure they have the tools and information needed to support their child’s development at home, in school, and in social settings.
Schedule an Appointment for Developmental and Behavioral Disorder Care in Atlanta
If you have concerns about your child’s development or behavior, the team at Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine is here to help. We offer expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of developmental and behavioral disorders at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can support your child’s growth and development.