Services
Developmental Behavioural Paediatrics
Comprehensive developmental assessments and personalised care for children with learning, behavioural, or developmental concerns.
Children develop at different paces, but certain challenges in learning, behaviour, or social interaction may benefit from specialist assessment and support. Early evaluation helps identify strengths, clarify needs, and guide effective interventions.
At Rophi Clinic, we provide family-centred developmental assessments and care planning. Our goal is to support each child’s growth, wellbeing, and ability to thrive at home, in school, and in the community.
Who This Service Is For
Children and families seeking support for developmental or behavioural concerns.
Children with Developmental Delays
For concerns in speech, learning, social skills, or overall development.
Children with Behavioural or Emotional Challenges
For difficulties with attention, behaviour regulation, or social interaction.
Parents Seeking Guidance
For families looking for clarity, assessment, and support planning.
Conditions We Support
- Developmental delays
- Autism spectrum conditions
- Attention and behavioural concerns
- Learning difficulties
- Emotional or social challenges
Our Approach
- Comprehensive developmental evaluation
- Use of standardised assessment tools
- Collaborative care planning with families
- Coordination with schools and therapists
- Long-term support and follow-up
Meet Our Specialists
Personalised Specialist Care at Rophi Clinic is provided by experienced medical professionals who prioritise understanding, clarity, and patient-centred care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Developmental-Behavioural Paediatrician (DBP)?
Think of a DBP as a specialist “detective” and guide for children who learn, act, or feel differently than others. While a regular paediatrician handles fevers and physical health, a DBP focuses on how a child’s brain develops and how they behave.
They are the go-to experts if a child has challenges with:
- Learning: Struggles with schoolwork or processing information.
- Development: Delays in walking, talking, or social skills (like Autism).
- Emotions & Behaviour: Difficulties with focus (ADHD), anxiety, or temperaments.
What conditions do Developmental Behavioural Paediatricians help with?
A DBP is trained to evaluate and manage a wide variety of challenges, including:
- Developmental Delays: Delays in talking (speech), writing, or movement.
- Learning Difficulties: Issues like Dyslexia or Dyscalculia.
- Brain-Based Conditions: Autism, ADHD, or Intellectual Disabilities.
- Daily Habits: Trouble with sleeping, eating, or toilet training.
- Complex Health Issues: Supporting children with long-term medical conditions.
- Mental Health: Supporting children with anxiety or depression.
When should I consider seeing a Developmental Behavioural Paediatrician?
You might consider a referral if you notice persistent challenges such as:
Communication & Social Skills
- Does not respond to their name by 12 months
- Avoids eye contact or prefers to play alone most of the time
- Significant speech delay
- Difficulty understanding social cues
Learning & Attention
- Large gap between effort and academic results
- Difficulty staying focused
- Struggles with reading, writing or mathematics
- Impulsive or hyperactive behaviour
Daily Life & Behaviour
- Frequent meltdowns or emotional outbursts
- Difficulty with sleep, feeding or toilet training
- Repetitive behaviours or restricted interests
How is a DBP different from a General Paediatrician?
General Paediatrician
Focuses on physical health, infections and vaccinations.
Developmental Behavioural Paediatrician
Focuses on brain development, behaviour, learning and emotional health.
Typical Visit
- General Paediatrician: shorter visits focused on physical symptoms
- DBP: longer, in-depth developmental assessments
What happens during the first consultation?
The first session is very thorough and usually lasts between 1 to 2 hours. It includes:
- Interview – discussion about your child’s development and concerns
- Evaluation – developmental or behavioural screening
- Discussion – explanation of findings
- Next Steps – therapy plans, referrals or further assessment if required
How long do assessments take?
Estimated duration:
- Specialist Consultation: 1–2 hours (first visit)
- Follow-up consultation: 30–60 minutes
- Griffiths-III developmental assessment: 2 hours
- Autism testing (ADOS): 2 hours
- Autism interview (ADI-R): 2 hours
- Family conference: 1–2 hours
- Youth mental health consultation: 1 hour
- Tele-consult: 30–60 minutes
- Home or school visit: 2–4 hours
What happens after the first visit?
If needed, the doctor may recommend further assessments such as:
- Griffiths-III developmental assessment
- Autism assessments (ADOS and ADI-R)
Following these assessments, a Family Conference may be arranged to discuss results and develop a care plan.
How do I prepare for my child’s visit?
How to prepare your child
- Schedule the appointment when your child is well-rested
- Keep the experience positive
- Bring familiar toys or snacks
Information to prepare
- Videos of behaviours of concern
- School feedback
- Previous therapy or medical reports
- List of medications
- Questions you would like to ask
What should I do during the consultation?
Be open and honest
- Share your concerns and goals
- Provide relevant family history
- Mention your child’s support system
Let your child interact naturally
- Allow time for your child to respond independently
Highlight strengths
- Share what your child enjoys and does well
Ask questions
- Request clarification if needed
What if my child has difficulty coming to the clinic?
Alternative arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis:
- Tele-consult (video consultation)
- Home visit
- School visit
Parents or caregivers are required to attend the first consultation at the clinic.
How should I prepare for a home visit or tele-consult?
Preparation tips:
- Choose a quiet, comfortable room
- Prepare favourite toys or books
- Ensure good lighting
- Test internet connection beforehand
- Prepare relevant reports or videos
What should I do after the consultation?
- Review the recommended next steps
- Start recommended therapies if advised
- Send updates or videos if relevant behaviours occur later
- Ask follow-up questions if clarification is needed
- Seek caregiver support if needed