Developmental Screening of Children of Migrant Construction Workers in Mumbai

Abstract

Development of each child is unique to themselves after birth. Socio-cultural factors, parenting behaviour and childhood nutrition are known to influence development during early childhood years. This study aimed to assess whether the development of children of migrant construction workers attending Mumbai Mobile Creches daycare centres was on track and to identify children with a risk of developmental delay. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) psychosocial screening test was used to screen 792 children. The test measures abilities in five areas of development, namely gross motor, vision and fine motor, hearing language and concept development and social skills and personal skills. Results indicated that 91 per cent children attained developmental milestones in time. Younger children were found to be more prone to developmental delay. The findings of this study emphasize the need for regular developmental assessment of migrant children and the need for early intervention when any delay is identified.