What Is a Toddler Developmental Assessment?
A toddler developmental assessment is conducted for children between the ages of 1 and 3 and measures progress across speech and language, gross and fine motor skills, cognitive development, social-emotional behavior, and adaptive daily living skills. At Stars Assessment Center in San Jose, Northern CA, toddler assessments are specifically designed for this critical developmental window and are used to identify delays before the age-three threshold for Early Start eligibility.
Parents often notice something feels different before any professional ever flags a concern. That instinct matters. A toddler assessment gives your observation clinical weight, and opens the door to support at exactly the right time.
Stars Assessment Center provides bilingual assessment support in Spanish, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Mandarin. Language should never be a barrier to getting answers about your child's development.
Signs Your Toddler May Need a Developmental Assessment
Developmental differences can look different from child to child. Consider scheduling an assessment if your toddler:
- Is not saying single words by 12 months or two-word phrases by 24 months
- Has lost previously learned language or social skills
- Is not walking independently by 15–18 months
- Has difficulty following simple directions or responding to questions
- Shows limited interest in pretend play or engaging with other children
- Becomes highly distressed by routine changes or transitions
- Had developmental concerns raised during an 18-month or 24-month checkup
- Has been referred by a pediatrician for a formal developmental assessment
How a Toddler Developmental Assessment Works at Stars
- Initial Assessment: We begin by reviewing your child's developmental history, caregiver concerns, and milestones.
- Structured Play-Based Assessment: A credentialed specialist evaluates your toddler through age-appropriate activities designed to feel engaging and natural.
- Findings Reviewed with Caregiver: We explain results clearly, answer questions, and make sure you understand each part of the assessment.
- Written Report and Next Steps: You receive a detailed report with findings and recommendations for additional support if needed.
What To Expect at Stars Assessment Center
- Assessments are conducted in a warm, child-friendly space designed to put toddlers at ease
- Sessions are play-based; your child will not feel like they are being tested
- Parents and caregivers are present throughout the assessment
- Most toddler assessments are completed in one to two sessions
- You will receive a written report and a clear explanation of any identified delays
Why Families in San Jose Trust Stars for Toddler Assessments
- Specialists in the 0-3 age range, the most critical developmental window
- Play-based assessment approach designed for toddler engagement and comfort
- Assessments may be covered through the California Early Start program at no cost to eligible families
- Bilingual support in Spanish, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Mandarin
- Serving families across Santa Clara County, San Benito County, and Santa Cruz County
Is This Service Covered?
Toddler developmental assessments at Stars Assessment Center may be covered through the California Early Start program at no cost to eligible families. Stars Assessment Center does not bill private insurance.
Contact our team to find out whether your child may qualify for no-cost coverage through the Early Start program.
Note: Stars Assessment Center does not accept private insurance. Early Start program eligibility is determined during the initial assessment.
Supporting Your Toddler's Growth With Confidence
Get answers, personalized guidance, and trusted next steps with compassionate developmental assessments designed for toddlers ages 1–3.
Frequently Asked Questions
Limited speech at 24 months can indicate a speech-language delay or other developmental concern. Schedule a assessment with our team to get a clear picture of your child's development.
Toddler assessments assess more complex milestones including emerging language, social interaction, problem-solving, and independence in daily tasks. Activities are age-calibrated for children ages 1 to 3.
No. Assessments at Stars are play-based and conducted at your child's pace. Specialists are trained to engage toddlers naturally, and parents are present throughout the session.
You receive a written report with clear recommendations. Our team helps connect your family to early intervention services through the California Early Start program if your child qualifies.