As a psychologist who specializes in early childhood, I know how important early intervention
is. The research is clear – children who receive interventions prior to age 6 show the most
marked gains in their developmental progress and demonstrate the most positive outcomes.
That is why I feel so strongly it is very important to make developmental screens available to as
many children as possible- to quickly identify any concerns or problems and devise meaningful
recommendations on supports or interventions.
In the past year, we have visited several local preschools and provided free screens to their
students.
Now, we are offering for a limited time, free developmental screenings for children ages 2-years-
7 months, to 7 years in our San Diego Kids First Carmel Valley office.
The developmental screen will be conducted by myself (Dr. Deborah Pontillo, Director of San
Diego Kids First), and my Doctoral Intern from Alliant International University (Jody Knight),
and will be approximately 90 minutes in length. There will be a brief parent interview to collect
history, 30 minutes of screening time with your child, a brief break, followed by parent feedback.
You will also receive a written outline of your child’s scores, and detailed recommendations
based on screening results.
Although developmental screens do not allow a sufficient opportunity for diagnostic
conclusions to be made, they do lead to specific recommendations or suggestions for therapies,
strategies or programs. In addition, screenings can determine whether or not further evaluation or
intervention is warranted.
I am so excited that we will be able to provide this service for you! Please contact Jenaya, our
Office Manager if you would like further information. You can reach her at
contact@sdkidsfirst.com / (858) 692-4187 and she will be happy to help you!