Developmental Pediatricians - Washington, DC

What is Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics?

Developmental-behavioral pediatricians are pediatricians who have special understanding and training in developmental, behavioral, and learning problems of children from infancy through adolescence. A fairly recent specialty, officially recognized in the early 2000's, developmental-behavioral pediatrics has grown rapidly and seen wide demand along with increased rates of autism spectrum disorders and other developmental and behavioral issues.

While a general pediatrician must concern themselves with all kinds of ailments that might affect children, a developmental-behavioral pediatrician is able to focus strictly on those problems that cause developmental delays or problematic behavior. This is still a very wide variety of disorders, but it may include:

Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia
Attention and behavior disorders, such as ADHD or oppositional-defiant disorder
Habit disorders, such as tics and Tourette syndrome
Regulatory disorders, such as problems with sleeping, eating, or toileting
Developmental disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, autism, or fetal alcohol syndrome
Delayed development, such as delayed speech and delayed motor skills

Regardless of the diagnosis, a developmental-behavioral pediatrician offers most families the same essential service: evaluation, diagnosis, education and information, resources, and treatment. Because there are so many developmental-behavioral disorders, and children may have more than one at a time, each treatment plan is highly individualized for that specific child. It may include behavior modification therapy, access to specialists, medication, occupational therapy, or a variety of other treatments. One of the most important parts of treatment that a developmental-behavioral pediatrician can offer is education. Teaching a child, their parents, their teachers, and others about a child's diagnosis helps everyone manage symptoms better.

Developmental or behavioral disorders can be frustrating or even frightening for children and their families. A developmental-behavioral pediatrician can help families get a handle on these issues, making sure all kids have the opportunity to reach their full potential.