Child Development Unit (CDU)

The Child Development Unit (CDU) promotes a family-centered approach to health care in which families participate actively in the assessment. The Child Development Unit is made up of a team of professionals who specialize in assessing a child’s delays developmentally, behaviorally or emotionally; developmental disorders; genetic disorders; or long-term consequences of medical conditions. The staff includes neurodevelopmental neurologists, developmental/behavioral pediatricians, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and trainees who collaborate to provide a comprehensive assessment tailored to the specific needs of children and families.

The goals of the assessment process are to describe a child’s strengths and weaknesses in many areas of functioning and determine, if possible, the factors contributing to a child’s difficulties. The assessment can lead to recommendations for building on a child’s strengths and for helping him or her in problem areas. Recommendations may include appropriate educational goals, settings and strategies.

This center provides a continuity of care and/or research opportunities for patients and their families.

Referral Requirements

Referrals are required from primary care physicians or other Children's Hospital specialty services. Referrals from schools, early intervention programs, and self-referrals are accepted with primary care physician authorization.

Patient Forms and Questionnaires

• CDU Child and Family Questionnaire
• CDU Teacher/Caregiver/Therapist Form
• NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale – Parent Form
• NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Follow-up – Parent Form
• NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale – Teacher Form
• NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Follow-up – Teacher Form