Developmental  Disorders are among the most common concerns raised by families in pediatric practice, yet they often present in complex, overlapping ways. This session on Developmental Disorders explores how clinicians can recognise, assess, and support children with difficulties in communication, social interaction, learning, motor skills, attention, and adaptive functioning. Rather than focusing solely on labels, the session emphasises understanding each child’s profile of strengths and needs, and developing practical plans that support participation at home, in early years settings, and in school.

Professionals increasingly attend Pediatrics Conference to keep pace with evolving diagnostic frameworks, assessment tools, and intervention approaches. In this session, participants will examine how to take a thorough developmental history, use structured observations, and select appropriate screening and diagnostic measures for conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, intellectual disability, and specific learning disorders. The content highlights the importance of ruling out or addressing medical contributors such as hearing or vision impairment, sleep problems, and chronic illness, which can mimic or exacerbate developmental difficulties.

A key focus is the design of responsive pediatric developmental care pathways that connect families to timely assessment, early intervention, and ongoing support. Case examples will illustrate how to coordinate roles across pediatrics, psychology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, education services, and social care. Participants will explore strategies for explaining findings in accessible terms, addressing parental concerns and guilt, and setting realistic, collaborative goals. Emphasis is placed on everyday strategies that can be implemented in homes and classrooms alongside more specialised therapies.

The session will also address equity, cultural perspectives, and advocacy. Attendees will consider how socioeconomic factors, language, migration, and stigma influence access to assessment and services, and how to adapt communication and intervention to different cultural contexts. The discussion includes approaches to supporting siblings, planning transitions between educational stages, and preparing adolescents for greater independence. By the end, participants will feel better equipped to identify developmental disorders early, coordinate interdisciplinary support, and advocate for inclusive environments that allow children to flourish.