Pediatric Evaluation and Developmental Services (PEDS) is a comprehensive developmental evaluation and intervention program modeled on a relationship-based approach.

Infants and children, age birth to 6, are eligible for this program and may be referred by a family member, teacher, health care provider or others.

KEY COMPONENTS OF THE PEDS PROGRAM ARE

Evaluation services: The PEDS evaluation involves multiple professionals trained to evaluate a child’s play, interactions, communication, cognition, movement, emotions and sensory integration. The evaluation generally includes

• Diagnostic Services for autism spectrum disorders and other developmental delays

• An observation completed in a play-based clinical setting where team members observe the child as he or she plays and interacts with family and team members

• An observation completed in the home or another location where the child spends a majority of the day in order for team members to observe how the child plays and interacts in a familiar location

• An assistive technology assessment/referrals for augmentative communication, computer access, visual impairments and adapted toys (through the Technology Learning Center)

• Video review to look at a child’s play/interactions (in order to see details that might otherwise be missed) to serve as a “springboard” to suggestions regarding how to best meet the needs of the child

• A comprehensive evaluation report detailing the teams' findings and recommendations

• Family support including a home visit and family assessment by a social worker to identify needed supports and resources for the family

• Referrals to other health care providers/agencies following a family/team discussion and review of available options, resources and family needs

Intervention services: Intervention services are available and are one of the service options for parents to consider. The PEDS intervention program includes

• Services provided by highly trained pediatric interventionists including early intervention specialists, speech and language pathologists, physical therapists and occupational therapists

• Services modeled on a relationship-based approach

• Services provided in the child’s home or another natural location that is familiar to the child (school, childcare, etc.)

• An individualized plan of care developed in collaboration with family members that outlines the details of each child’s educational program and learning goals

• Collaboration with school districts and other agencies

• Child/family play groups

• Assistive technology loan program

• Parent library, family education and family support

Family Participation: The PEDS program is founded on the guiding philosophical principals that

• THE FAMILY IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF A CHILD’S DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAM!

• Warm and responsive relationships between caregivers and children form the foundation for development.

• Children learn throughout the entire day during social interactions with people who are important to them.

• Early education and early intervention are critical for optimal development and learning.

To these ends, family participation is crucial to all aspects of the PEDS program. Specific recommendations aimed at promoting these principals and nurturing your child’s natural desire to connect with you will be provided.

Fees apply for all PEDS services. Please contact the PEDS coordinator for more information.

Contact Information

Coordinator: Beth Bruton, CPNP
Phone: 601.266.6736 or 601.266.5163
TTY: 1.888.671.0051