Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (DBP)

Interns participate in two 2-week DBP rotations at either BCH or BMC. This curriculum provides residents with a rigorous foundation in normal and abnormal infant and child development. Clinic sessions address initial assessment and follow-up for infants, children, and adolescents with developmental, behavioral and/or learning problems. Residents participate in testing with developmental-behavioral pediatricians, psychologists and educational specialists. Given its prevalence and social impact, there is a special focus on autism spectrum disorder.

Nonclinical experiences in child development provide wonderful adjunct opportunities and more complete appreciation for this important discipline. Residents participate in Early Intervention home encounters, visit the Children’s Hospital Childcare Center, and observe in classrooms, including special education settings and an elementary school in the Boston Public School system. Some also attend special education evaluation meetings and special school events. Didactics at both Boston Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center include topics such as developmental screening and surveillance in primary care, special education evaluations and services, mental health screening, failure to thrive, discipline, the child’s experience of grieving and loss, and the child’s experience of interpersonal violence.