27 month developmental review

All children are offered a two year health and development review between 24 to 30 months of age, also known as the 27 month review. The health visiting team will usually contact you to schedule an appointment. If you have not yet been contacted, please get in touch with the health visiting hub.

Why is it important

The 27 month review is part of the Healthy Child Programme and is offered to all children by a member of the health visiting team.

Age two to two-and-a-half is an important time for a child and their parents. It is a period of rapid growth, learning and development in a young child’s life, and is also a crucial time when a child’s need for additional support from health services, or the education system can become clear. Getting a good start in life is an important marker for good health and wellbeing throughout life.

As part of the 27 Month Review parents will be asked to complete an ASQ-3 questionnaire. These are simple questions about the things your child is doing at home. Health professionals will use this information, along with your knowledge of your child, to create a comprehensive understanding of your child's health, behavior, learning, and progress with developmental milestones.

As part of the review the Early Language Identification Measure (ELIM) tool is used. This will support the assessment of your child’s speech, language and communication. This assessment involves a word list and observation of your child’s communication during the review. Following this the healthcare professional will discuss the results with you.

Health promotion will also be discussed during the review such as immunisations, oral health, nutrition and healthy start vitamins. It is also an opportunity for you to discuss any concerns you may have such as toilet training, diet, sleep and physical activity. The review is an excellent way to access early help and support so your child has the best start in life.

First point of contact

If your child lives in Hackney and regularly attends a nursery, children’s centre or playgroup they can benefit from having the review in their childcare setting. This is called an Integrated 27 Month Review and will involve your child’s key worker, a member from the health visiting team and the parents/carers.

You can ask staff in the nursery about the Integrated 27 Month Reviews. Listen to our podcast to find out more on integrated reviews carried out in your child’s nursery.