Parents and children enjoy time together at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester Parents Playgroup.
As parents, we cherish every moment—our child’s first words, first steps, and every achievement along the way. Developmental screening is a simple yet powerful tool to track a child’s growth and learning, ensuring they’re meeting key milestones. However, misconceptions about screenings often create unnecessary fear and hesitation, stemming from misunderstandings about their purpose and benefits.
Let’s debunk some of the most common myths—frequently raised by parents with our screening coaches and family site coordinators at Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester, South Boston Neighborhood House, and East Boston Social Center—and uncover the facts every parent should know.
Myth #1: 'Screening Means There’s Something Wrong'
Many parents worry that a screening might reveal unexpected problems or suggest something is wrong with their child.
Fact: Screenings are simple questionnaires that provide a clear picture of where children are excelling and where they might need extra help. They aren’t about diagnosing problems but understanding development to strengthen your child’s skills. If any concerns arise, screenings connect families to the resources and support they need. The more you know, the better equipped you are to help your child thrive.
Myth #2: 'My Personal Information Won’t Be Private'
Privacy is a common concern, especially about who sees your personal information.
Fact: Your information is confidential. Only basic details like name, phone number, and age are collected for demographic purposes. Parents can use a program address, initials or a made-up name if preferred, and printed forms can be completed without entering data online. The focus is on supporting, not tracking, families.
Myth #3: 'Screening Feels Like a Big Test'
Some parents worry that screenings are formal tests, which can feel intimidating, overwhelming, and stressful for their child.
Fact: Screenings are simple, quick, and non-invasive. They often involve playful activities that look at skills like motor function, communication, and social interaction. Screenings are not about passing or failing—they’re designed to identify strengths and areas that may need attention. Your child may not even realize they’re being screened—it’s more like playtime with a purpose!
Myth #4: 'My Child Will Be Labeled in School'
Parents often fear that a low score on a developmental screening will lead to their child being labeled or judged in public school.
Fact: Screenings are not diagnoses. A lower score may simply indicate a delay, not a disability. Early detection ensures children get the support they need before small challenges grow into bigger obstacles.
Myth #5: 'Screenings Are Only Necessary If There Is a Disability'
Some parents may believe screenings are only needed when there’s a noticeable concern or a suspected disability.
Fact: Screenings are for all children, even those who seem on track. They help ensure everything is going well and can catch subtle signs of developmental delays that might otherwise go unnoticed early.
Myth #6: 'I Can Just Wait Until My Child Starts School'
Parents may think that school is the best time to focus on developmental progress.
Fact: Waiting too long can mean missing early intervention opportunities. Many milestones happen in the first few years of life, so early screenings can provide crucial support that impacts long-term development.
Myth #7: 'If There’s an Issue, I’ll Just Handle It on My Own'
Many parents feel responsible for their child’s development and think they can handle concerns alone.
Fact: Screenings connect you to a network of professionals who can guide you through the next steps. You’re not alone—there are teams dedicated to supporting your child’s growth.
The Bottom Line: Knowledge is Power
Remember, screening isn’t an evaluation or a diagnosis— it’s a proactive step to help your child reach their full potential. Since 2014, United Way of Massachusetts Bay’s DRIVE initiative has worked to make developmental screenings accessible to all young children and families by partnering with early education programs, family childcare educators, housing agencies, and municipalities like Boston’s Office of Early Childhood.
This commitment is part of a broader citywide effort to support early childhood development. Every Child Ready to Learn, Grow, and Succeed (formerly Screen Every Child), supported by Boston Children’s Hospital, brings together community organizations to create a comprehensive developmental screening and referral system in Boston. Led by the Boston Opportunity Agenda, this initiative brings together partners like United Way of Massachusetts Bay’s DRIVE initiative, the Boston Family Engagement Network, Family Nurturing Center, the Boston Office of Early Childhood, Shared Services, and Boston Public Schools' Boston PreK program. Together, they ensure families have access to screenings, guidance, and resources to help their children thrive.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let myths hinder your child’s development. Schedule a developmental screening today and take the first step in supporting their future. Early detection leads to early support and success.
For more information on developmental screening, check out United Way's DRIVE initiative and if you are interested in completing a developmental screening for your child, contact your local CFCE.