Developmental Therapy

What is Developmental Therapy?

Pediatric developmental therapy (DT) focuses on supporting the whole child’s development, with an emphasis on how they learn, play, communicate, participate and interact in everyday routines.

Developmental therapists work on a child's growth across all developmental domains, identifying delays and helping families understand how to support their child’s skills through play-based, relationship-driven strategies.

Therapist and child using a sensory box filled with blue sand.

HOW TO SPOT THE SIGNS

Early Signs Your Child Needs Developmental Therapy Services

Not babbling by 12 months
No single words by 16 months
Limited eye contact or limited response to their name
Difficulty playing with peers
Difficulty regulating emotions
Difficulty with routines
Aggression (hitting, biting, throwing)
Delayed crawling, walking, or coordination
Struggles to learn basic concepts (colors, shapes, numbers)
Limited curiosity or exploration

SMALL STEPS, BIG MILESTONES

Key Developmental Areas Strengthened Through DT

Communication & early language skills
Social interaction and play skills
Problem-solving and early learning abilities
Fine and gross motor development
Emotional regulation and coping skills
Attention, engagement, and following directions
Daily routines and independence

Who is on your Care Team?

Developmental Therapist (DT)

A developmental therapist supports children in building foundational skills across areas such as communication, play, learning, social interaction, and behavior. Using individualized, play-based strategies, they help children progress at their own pace while partnering with families to encourage growth at home and in everyday life.

Early Intervention Providers

Indiana First Steps

Developmental Therapy FAQ

Who can benefit from Developmental Therapy?

Developmental therapy supports infants and young children (ages 0-3) who show delays in one or more areas of development, including cognition, play, social-emotional skills, communication, motor skills, or adaptive behavior.

It can benefit children who are not meeting developmental milestones, have difficulty with play or attention, struggle with problem solving or social interaction, or have diagnosed or suspected developmental delays.

How do I know if Developmental Therapy is right for my child?

Caregivers may consider developmental therapy if their child is not progressing as expected across multiple areas of developmental, has limited play skills, difficulty engaging with others, challenges with routines or transitions, or shows delays without a clear single area of concern.

If caregivers feel their child needs support with overall development or learning through everyday activities, developmental therapy may be warranted.

How long is a typical Developmental Therapy program?

Do parents participate in Developmental Therapy?

Is Developmental Therapy covered by insurance?

Coverage for developmental therapy depends on the service model and funding source. Developmental therapy is provided through early intervention programs and may be covered at low or no cost to caregivers.

Private insurance coverage varies and may require referrals or authorization. Caregivers can contact their early intervention program or insurance provider for specific coverage details

What is the evaluation process?

Caregivers can request a developmental evaluation through their state’s early intervention program. A developmental therapy evaluation includes a caregiver interview, developmental screening or assessment, and observation of the child during play and daily routines.

Multiple areas of development are assessed to identify strengths and delays. Results are shared with caregivers and recommendations are discussed collaboratively.

Where does Milestone offer Developmental Therapy?

I am interested in services, what are the next steps?

Caregivers can request a developmental therapy evaluation through their state’s early intervention program. The early intervention program will schedule an evaluation with licensed therapists. The therapists and early intervention program will guide caregivers through eligibility, referrals, and any required authorization. If services are recommended, a plan of care is developed with caregiver input.

Have more questions? Get in touch!

Developmental Therapy

What is Developmental Therapy?

Early Signs Your Child Needs Developmental Therapy Services

Key Developmental Areas Strengthened Through DT

Who is on your Care Team?

Developmental Therapy FAQ

Highland, IN

Homewood, IL

Merrillville, IN

Bradley, IL