Developmental surveillance, screening and evaluation: an analysis of Brazil's public policies for child care

Abstract

This essay analyzes Brazilian laws, public policies and programs for the promotion of child development, focusing on initiatives aimed at identifying developmental delays. Since 1984, early childhood legislation has included child development as part of the Brazilian child care agenda. However, screening and developmental assessment were not placed in a high position as one of the most important actions aimed at childcare. It is necessary to formulate official instruments or scales, and implement interventions for the detection of developmental disorders, delays and risk conditions that will enable to reach more children, and the early identification of developmental delays.