Behaviour Screening

Supporting Your Child's Social, Emotional & Developmental Wellbeing

Behavioural Screening for Children at Flagstone Family Practice

Helping Children Thrive Through Early Identification and Support

Every child develops at their own pace, but sometimes behavioural, emotional, or developmental challenges may become apparent as they grow. Identifying these concerns early can make a significant difference to a child's confidence, learning, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

At Flagstone Family Practice, we provide comprehensive behavioural screening and developmental assessments for children of all ages. Our experienced GPs work closely with families to understand each child's unique needs and, when appropriate, coordinate care with paediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and other allied health professionals.

Whether you're concerned about your child's behaviour, communication, attention, learning, or emotional wellbeing, we're here to provide compassionate guidance and evidence-based care.

Behavioural Screening Available in Australia

Behavioural screening uses evidence-based assessment tools to identify children who may benefit from further evaluation or early intervention. Depending on your child's age and concerns, your GP may recommend one or more of the following screening tools.

Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ-3 & ASQ:SE-2)

Designed for infants and young children, these questionnaires assess developmental milestones, social skills, emotional regulation, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ)

A widely used screening tool that evaluates emotional wellbeing, behaviour, attention, peer relationships, and social skills in children and adolescents.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Screening

Tools such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT-R/F) and other evidence-based assessments help identify early signs of autism, allowing children to access specialist assessment and early intervention if required.

ADHD Screening

Standardised assessments, including the Conners Rating Scales and Vanderbilt Assessment Scales, help evaluate symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity across home and school environments.

Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL)

This comprehensive questionnaire helps identify behavioural, emotional, and social concerns, including anxiety, depression, aggression, and attention difficulties.

Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT-R/F)

A parent-completed screening questionnaire designed for children aged 16 to 30 months, helping identify toddlers who may require further autism assessment.

Conditions That Behavioural Screening May Help Identify

Behavioural screening does not provide a diagnosis on its own, but it helps identify children who may benefit from additional assessment or support.

Conditions that may be identified include:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Children with autism may experience differences in communication, social interaction, repetitive behaviours, or sensory processing. Early identification can improve long-term developmental outcomes.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD may affect a child's ability to focus, manage impulses, stay organised, or regulate activity levels at home and school.

Anxiety and Depression

Children can experience emotional challenges just like adults. Symptoms may include excessive worry, withdrawal, irritability, changes in sleep, difficulty concentrating, or loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Some children may display persistent patterns of anger, frustration, argumentative behaviour, or difficulty following rules that affect daily functioning.

Learning Difficulties

Learning disorders such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia can impact reading, writing, spelling, mathematics, and academic performance. Early support can help children build confidence and achieve their learning potential.

Speech and Language Delays

Difficulties with speech or language development may affect communication, social interactions, and school readiness. Early intervention can significantly improve communication skills.

Sensory Processing Difficulties

Some children may be unusually sensitive—or less responsive—to sounds, textures, lights, movement, or touch. Identifying sensory processing challenges early can help families access appropriate therapy and support.

How Flagstone Family Practice Can Help

Our experienced GPs provide personalised, family-centred care to support your child's behavioural and developmental health.

We offer:

• Comprehensive behavioural and developmental assessments

• Evidence-based screening using recognised assessment tools

• Monitoring of developmental milestones and behavioural concerns

• Individualised guidance and practical support for parents and carers

• Early intervention planning when concerns are identified

• Referrals to paediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and other allied health professionals

• Ongoing follow-up appointments to monitor your child's progress and development

Supporting Families Every Step of the Way

It can be difficult to know whether a behaviour is simply part of growing up or something that may need further assessment. If you have concerns about your child's development, behaviour, learning, attention, or emotional wellbeing, you're not alone.

Our team at Flagstone Family Practice takes the time to listen, answer your questions, and work with you to develop a personalised care plan that supports your child's long-term health and wellbeing.

Book a Behavioural Screening!

Early identification can make a lasting difference in a child's development, learning, and quality of life. If you have concerns about your child's behaviour or developmental milestones, our caring team is here to help.

Book Now