Advice - seeing a developmental Pediatrician for first time

Hi all - just looking for some reassurance. My son is PDD-NOS and is non verbal. Hes 3.5 and goes to DDI full time since September. Before that he went to Just Kids p/t and had ABA at home. Although he's definitely improved in some ways, we don't see improvements in others. Honestly, yes of course his speech is a concern but for me the fact that he doesn't understand/comprehend is what worries me more. ANYWAY, we have an apt with a dev pediatrician tomorrow for the first time and I'm not sure what to expect - is he too old for a first visit? Should we already have done this (not that I can do anything about that!)? I'm just wondering what to expect - thank you!!!

Advice - seeing a developmental Pediatrician for first time

Definitely not to old. DD went for the first time at 4.5 after visiting a few other doctors first that weren't a good fit for us. You should be getting a packet from them to fill out and to have his teachers fill out. Bring copies of your IEPs, any recent data, some work that he has done The first visit the doctor will review the materials and most likely talk to you and your son and observe. Our first meeting was broken up into 3 and the last meeting I went alone to review everything and to discuss the doctors thoughts and recommendations. My only advice is to write down everything you want to ask him. You get caught up in the moment and may forget some things. Also no question is too silly to ask. Ask everything. Don't sugar coat anything that he is doing or not doing so the doctor can get a true feel for your son. If you do not like this doctor, definitely look for another. You don't need to settle and find someone that fits your family. Good luck!

Re: Advice - seeing a developmental Pediatrician for first time

My son was diagnosed the same 2 years ago and I've never seen a developmental pediatrician. I think I created this type of thread asking about what a developmental pediatrician does and from what I gathered there was no reason to switch him to somebody different. I was amazed at how well he did on his 4 year check up with his current ped and all my 3 kids see the same ped. The only time I considered seeing one was to get a 2nd opinion on the diagnosis which was given by a psychologist. I accepted what the psychologist diagnosed and worked on his therapy/treatment from there. I feel the most important part after the diagnosis is getting the right therapy, the right amount of therapy and right school/teachers to work with. Don't feel you missed anything at all

Re: Advice - seeing a developmental Pediatrician for first time

Thanks very much to you both. I have the paperwork ready and will be sure to bring questions. I'm not looking to change pediatricians nor do I need confirmation on a diagnosis but I do know that sometimes bc they are more familiar with special needs they may be able to offer some more advice, etc.... It's hard to not think of what the future may hold with my son and I'm hoping this may be a good start.... I put it off to see how he did with ABA, etc and although he's doing better I still wonder. I know it can't hurt to try it out.... I just didn't want her to say "why did you wait so long". :)