Getting Assessed for Global Development Delay (GDD)
Understanding Global Developmental Delays
Global Developmental Delay (GDD) can impact a child’s ability to reach developmental milestones in areas such as speech, motor skills, and cognitive functioning. At Psychological Assessments, we provide expert evaluations to help families understand their child’s needs and create a clear plan for growth and development.
What is a Global Developmental Delay (GDD)?
GDD is a term for a young child who shows significant delays in multiple developmental areas, including cognitive, physical, communication, social-emotional, or adaptive skills. This condition is often identified in children under five years old.
Specific areas of delay may include:
- Speech and language
- Social and emotional development
- Cognitive abilities
- Daily living and play
- Gross and fine motor skills
GDD falls under the category of intellectual developmental disorder. However, the diagnosis can only be given when the child is under 5 years of age, and due to their age, they cannot be reliably assessed. They will require reassessment when they are older.
What are the Symptoms, Challenges and Behaviours of GDD?
- Delayed speech and language development.
- Difficulty with fine and gross motor skills, such as holding objects or walking.
- Challenges in social interactions, such as making eye contact or playing with peers.
- Struggling with problem-solving and learning new skills.
- Difficulty performing tasks expected for their age, such as dressing or feeding themselves.
What are the Causes of Global Developmental Delays?
- Genetic factors, including chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome.
- Complications during pregnancy, such as infections or exposure to harmful substances.
- Premature birth or low birth weight.
- Environmental factors, including severe malnutrition or neglect.
Self-Assessment: Take the quiz
The questions below offer a starting point for helping you identify if you may have ADHD and whether an assessment would be helpful. It is essential to realise that this test is not diagnostic and will not deliver a diagnosis. It is a tool to help you start your investigative journey by helping you identify possible symptoms. As other conditions can sometimes resemble ADHD, it is important to get properly assessed by a professional.

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Why Get a Global Developmental Delay Assessment?
Child Global Developmental Delay assessments are designed to evaluate cognitive, motor, and social development. These assessments typically involve comprehensive evaluations using standardised tests, clinical interviews, and observations to identify developmental delays and provide a clear diagnosis.
Our comprehensive child Global Developmental Delay assessments provide you with a clear understanding of your child’s challenges and strengths. Based on the assessment results, we develop personalised strategies to address your child’s specific developmental needs.
An assessment will help you gain valuable insights that guide decisions about educational interventions, therapies, and ongoing support for your child. Timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve your child’s development and long-term outcomes.
Understand the extent of your child’s developmental delays and identify the areas requiring support.
Use the results to secure NDIS funding, educational support, and therapy services.
Gain practical recommendations tailored to your child’s unique needs to promote growth and learning.
Making Assessments As Easy As 1-2-3
We believe in making the assessment process as straightforward and supportive as possible. We’ve been on your side, either for ourselves, a loved one, or through work, and we want to make sure this part of the journey is as easy as possible and that the information you receive along the way is easy to understand and implement—as easy as 1-2-3!
Who Should Consider a Global Development Delay Assessment?
If you have concerns about your child meeting developmental milestones, an assessment can clarify their needs.
Teachers may notice delays in learning or social interactions that warrant further evaluation.
Pediatricians and other providers may recommend assessments to address child development concerns.
How to Prepare for an Assessment
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the assessment process.
Preparing Your Child
Preparing for a Child or Adult Assessment
What to Expect During the Assessment Process
Our assessments are designed to be comfortable, supportive, and thorough. We aim to create a calm and comfy atmosphere to make the experience as stress-free as possible. We hope children and adults find a safe, welcoming space to express themselves freely.
We’ll participate in various activities during the assessment to help our team understand cognitive, behavioural, and emotional characteristics. These may include engaging tasks, observations, and caregiver interviews in a calm, supportive setting.
Global Developmental Delay Assessments typically take 2–3 hours, depending on your child’s need
How is Global Developmental Delay Assessed?
Assessing GDD involves a comprehensive approach that evaluates multiple developmental domains:
- Developmental History: Gathering detailed information about your child’s milestones and progress.
- Observational Assessments: Evaluating how your child interacts, communicates, and performs age-appropriate tasks.
- Standardised Testing: Conducting assessments to measure cognitive, motor, and social-emotional skills.
- Collaborative Input: Considering insights from caregivers, educators, and other healthcare professionals.
Why Choose Psychological Assessments?
Client-Centered, Flexible Approach
At Psychological Assessments, we understand that every person’s needs are different. We adapt to your schedule and requirements, offering assessments in-clinic, in-home, or online.
Empathy and Expertise
Our highly qualified psychologists combine professional expertise with a real-life understanding of our clients' challenges. We take pride in creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where everyone feels respected and supported.
Clear and Practical Insights
Our assessments go beyond reports—they provide actionable steps that make a real difference. We write in plain English so that everyone involved—from parents to teachers—can understand the recommendations and effectively put them into practice.
Community Engagement
We believe in giving back to our community, advocating for vulnerable groups, and providing accessible services. We also support other professionals through supervision and specialised training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your top questions about our assessments answered.
What is a Global Developmental Delay Assessment?
An assessment evaluates a child’s development across multiple areas to determine if there are significant delays.
How do I know if my child needs a GDD assessment?
If your child is not meeting milestones in areas like speech, motor skills, or social interactions, an assessment may help.
Does Medicare cover this assessment?
Medicare rebates might be available if you have a referral from your doctor. Discuss this with us to see how Medicare could apply to your assessment.
Does my private health insurance cover this assessment?
Coverage depends on your specific health insurance policy. Check with your insurer about rebates for GDD assessments and ask for item number details.
Is this assessment covered by NDIS?
Yes, GDD assessments are often covered by NDIS funding. Contact us to learn more.
How long does the assessment take?
GDD assessments typically take 2–3 hours, including testing and caregiver interviews.
How Can We Help?
At Psychological Assessments, we provide more than just answers. We offer practical strategies and compassionate guidance to help your child reach their full potential. Whether it’s accessing therapy, supporting learning, or navigating NDIS funding, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact our team today to book an assessment or discuss your child’s needs.