What action is recommended when a 2-year-old shows delays in multiple developmental domains?

• A. Refer for a comprehensive developmental evaluation and early intervention services
• B. Wait until 3 years old
• C. Start physical therapy
• D. Send to psychiatry

Answer: (A)

When a two-year-old shows delays in multiple developmental areas, the priority is to get a comprehensive developmental evaluation and connect the child with early intervention services. This approach recognizes that delays across several domains—communication, cognition, social-emotional, and motor—often require a coordinated, multidisciplinary assessment to understand the child's overall development and to tailor supports.

A comprehensive evaluation helps determine eligibility for early intervention under age three and identifies the specific therapies and supports the child needs, such as speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, all delivered in a family-centered way. Initiating services early can improve outcomes by supporting development during a critical window and reducing the likelihood of prolonged delays.

Waiting until age three could delay access to services that are designed for children under three, and starting only one type of therapy would overlook challenges in other areas. Referring to psychiatry isn’t appropriate here unless there are distinct psychiatric or behavioral concerns.