If a child has significant developmental delays is the parent negligent by not getting the child tested?

Question

My grandson has significant developmental delyas in communication, speech and social interaction. He lives with his father and is taken care of most of the time by his paternal grandparents. They are not getting the boys tested or acting concerned. I'm not even sure that they've ever made sure he sees a pediatrician for regular check ups or to get his immunizations. Does their lack of having him tested or having him see a doctor constitute neglect with Child Protection?

Answer 1

Well yes. He should be shown to a Pediatrician. You did not mention his age. Was he a pre-mature baby? He needs to have a MRI scan or CT scan of the brain done. He does need help. Don't delay it. If it's the money issue, there are public health services where a pediatrician or nurse would assess him for no cost or very little cost.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Not usually. If there is a doctor out there that has officially given the child a diagnosis, then recommended therapy and the parents don't follow up then it educational neglect. It's really difficult to prove with a diagnosis let alone without one. You could approach the state with your concerns and they may be able to force some testing IF they find other concerns in the home. They have to have legitimate reasons for the testing as well and it can't just be a he said she said situation. You don't say how old the child is, if he's in school you could enlist the help of his teachers. All I can say is document, document, document (your concerns, his behaviors, anything) because in the future it'll help that you have a record of such things. You may also want to consult a lawyer.

Answer 3

No, this is a free country and we are no forced to get children tested. Not to mention what do you think the test will provide? It sounds like you know the answers, do you want the test to verify you are correct? After the evaluation what is it you expect to happen?

Children develop and different speeds and times. Some are smarter than others and some are bricks. Some are just not as mature and take longer to develop. taking a test pointing out they are slower than others does nothing for the child.

You want the test for personnal reasons and I think you should back off.

When the child gets to school teachers will be working with the child and will be able to make suggestions as to the childs development. The child will also be required to have proof of required Vaccinations. Personnaly I think we focus too much on development and should spend more time orking on personnal social skills and family values.

Botton line is no that is NOT neglect by child protection standards

Answer 4

Though this may be the case, you will get better results if you take matters into your own hands, as opposed to going the CPS or some governmental agency. If you are not on speaking terms, see if you can get on speaking terms. Offer your concerns in a helpful, caring manner. Offer to have the child tested. Also, remember that all children develop at different rates. It sounds like his mother isn't around much (?) which can cause significant emotional stress for which he should be treated at an early age.

Answer 5

Why not step in and offer to take the child to the doctors? Why not keep track of the immunizations or contact social services for programs that might help him?

It sounds like the parents are out of this child's life. So - perhaps it's time for the grandparents (ALL of them) to step up to the plate and be this child's advocate.

Answer 6

It could be. Have you talked to them about it? If you are concerned, you could call Children's Protective Services. If they feel there is a problem, they may force the issue. Do you ever have the child with you and can you pursue this when he is with you?

Answer 7

Can't you just ask the mother or the father?

Answer 8

Absolutely.You need to inform someone.

Answer 9

yes