Developmental Screening in Lebanon (9, 18, 30 Months) + Autism Screening (18, 24) | Dr. Rawan Demachkie
Developmental Screening in Lebanon: 9, 18, 30 Months + Autism Screening (18, 24)
You can miss early developmental delays even when your child looks “mostly fine.” Screening helps detect concerns early, so you can act early. This page explains what screening is, when it is recommended, and what you should do if you worry.
Clinic + online: Beirut, Jounieh, Jbeil/Byblos + online pediatric consultations for Lebanon and abroad.
Tip: Save your child’s screening results and bring them to follow-up visits.
What developmental screening is (and what it is not)
Developmental monitoring
You and your pediatrician track progress over time using milestones, history, and observation at every well-child visit.
Developmental screening
Screening uses standardized tools or questionnaires to detect delays that are not obvious in a short exam.
Not a diagnosis
A “positive” screen means your child needs further assessment. It does not confirm a diagnosis by itself.
Fast answers parents search for
- General developmental screening: commonly recommended around 9, 18, and 30 months, and anytime there is concern.
- Autism-specific screening: commonly recommended around 18 and 24 months, and earlier if concerns exist.
- Best time to act: when you first notice an issue, not when school starts.
Recommended screening ages (simple table)
| Age | What screening focuses on | What you should bring | Next step if concerns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 months | Early communication, movement, problem-solving, interaction | Your observations, short video examples if possible | Focused exam, repeat screening, early referral if needed |
| 18 months | General development + autism-specific screening | Words used, pointing, response to name, play habits | Autism assessment pathway if screen is positive |
| 24 months | Autism-specific screening check-in | Two-word phrases, pretend play, interaction with others | Referral if concerns continue or new red flags appear |
| 30 months | General development (speech clarity, motor, behavior, learning) | Nursery feedback (if applicable), behavior examples | Plan: follow-up, therapies, or specialized evaluation |
Why 9, 18, and 30 months matter
These ages align with major shifts in communication, social interaction, and learning. Many children show mild concerns that become clearer over time. Screening reduces the chance that concerns are missed, especially when a child behaves differently in the clinic than at home.
Screening works best when you answer honestly and bring real examples. Your goal is not to “pass” a test. Your goal is to get the right plan.
Red flags that should trigger evaluation (not waiting)
| Area | Examples parents notice | What you should do |
|---|---|---|
| Skills trend | No progress for months, or loss of skills | Book urgently for evaluation |
| Social interaction | Limited eye contact, does not respond to name, does not point to share interest | Book a developmental + autism screening discussion |
| Communication | Very limited sounds/words, poor understanding, regression in speech | Assess hearing, interaction, and language environment |
| Movement | Very floppy or very stiff, major asymmetry, difficulty using both sides | Book a focused exam and referral if needed |
Clinic visit vs online consultation for developmental concerns
| Situation | Online consultation fits | Clinic visit fits |
|---|---|---|
| You want to organize concerns and decide next steps | Yes | Sometimes |
| You have videos of behavior and want structured review | Yes | Yes |
| You need a physical/neurologic exam or tone assessment | No | Yes |
| You have strong red flags or regression | No | Yes (urgent) |
Why families in Lebanon search screening schedules
Parents usually search “screening 18 months” or “autism screening 24 months” after nursery comments, delayed speech, behavior concerns, or because family advice conflicts. Screening gives you a structured approach instead of guessing.
If you worry, book a visit. If your child is stable, you can start online to build the plan. If red flags exist, book in-clinic.
Book a developmental screening visit
Book a clinic visit in Beirut, Jounieh, or Jbeil/Byblos, or book an online pediatric consultation to review concerns and decide next steps.
FAQ: Developmental screening in Lebanon
What is the difference between developmental monitoring and screening?
Monitoring tracks milestones over time through observation and history at every visit. Screening uses standardized tools to detect delays that can be missed in routine visits.
When is developmental screening recommended?
Screening is commonly recommended around 9, 18, and 30 months, and anytime you or your pediatrician has concerns.
When is autism screening recommended?
Autism-specific screening is commonly recommended around 18 and 24 months, and earlier if concerns exist about social interaction, response to name, or communication.
What should I bring to a screening visit?
Bring your key concerns, examples of situations that worry you, and short videos if you have them. If nursery has feedback, bring it.
Can I start with an online pediatric consultation for screening concerns?
Yes. Online consultation helps organize symptoms and plan next steps. If a physical exam is needed, you will get clear instructions on when to come in.
Helpful pages
Medical review note: This page is written and medically reviewed by Dr. Rawan Demachkie for Kids Health Journey Clinic to help parents understand screening schedules and decide when to book evaluation. It does not replace a medical exam when urgent signs are present.
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