Child development
Atlantic Health offers compassionate, specialized care for children with learning, behavioral and developmental challenges, supporting their growth and potential through expert care for autism, ADHD and related conditions in a family-centered setting.
Providing care for every need
Kids with learning, behavioral or developmental challenges need specialized care to be physically, cognitively, academically, socially and emotionally healthy. At the Child Development and Autism Center, we can help your child reach his or her maximum potential in all of these areas.
As part of Atlantic Health Children’s Health, we have medical specialists here who provide superior pediatric care that is specific to your child’s needs, while also respectful of every family’s values.
Some of the behavioral and developmental conditions evaluated and treated at the Child Development and Autism Center are:
- Autism
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Language disorders
- Learning disorders
Our team of health care professionals includes neurodevelopmental pediatricians, a nurse practitioner, social workers, learning consultants, a speech-language therapist and a psychologist. They are trained in treating developmental delays, autistic spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other related conditions.
Children with neurological disorders, such as epilepsy or neuromuscular disease, are treated at our Division of Child Neurology and Developmental Medicine. As part of Atlantic Health Children’s Health, physician services are provided through Atlantic Medical Group and are on staff at Goryeb Children’s Hospital.
Diagnostic tests & screenings
As a designated Child Evaluation Center by the New Jersey Department of Education, we can diagnose your child’s developmental condition using a series of comprehensive assessments, which may include:
Laboratory services
We also know that many patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder feel anxious about having blood drawn. That’s why we designed a sensory room at the Atlantic Health Children’s Specialty Center at Morristown.
While you are waiting for a neurodevelopmental evaluation
For every child under age 3 years with developmental or behavioral concerns, we suggest you call Early Intervention System for a free evaluation in your home. In New Jersey please call 1-888-653-4463.
- If you have concerns about speech or language skills, you can ask your pediatrician for a direct referral to speech therapy. For Atlantic Health services, please call 973-971-4452.
- If you have concerns about fine motor skills or sensory issues, you can ask your pediatrician for a direct referral to occupational therapy. For Atlantic Health services, please call 973-971-4452.
- If your child does not seem to respond to their name or follow directions you may ask your pediatrician for a referral for a hearing test (audiology).
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control for more information about tracking milestones and stimulating development in children >
- If your child is age 3 years or older, you may have them evaluated for special education services through your local school district. Contact the Child Study Team of your local school district. You do not need a diagnosis to be eligible.
- If your child is having significant behavioral problems, The NJ Children's System of Care may be available to your family. Parents may call 1-877-652-7624 to see if your child qualifies for any in home behavioral therapy through the state.
- For children who have anxiety or behavioral problems you may wish to access a therapist through your insurance. You should check your insurance card for the number to call for mental health services to gain information on referrals in your plan.
If you are concerned about your child showing signs of intentionally harming themselves or having suicidal thoughts, please seek immediate care and call Crisis Intervention at Morristown Medical Center at 973-540-0100.
If you are having a medical emergency, please call 911.