Parents are often the first to notice when something seems different in their child’s development, but it can sometimes be tricky to figure out what to do next. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are helpful resources and professionals ready to support you every step of the way.

Next Step Child Development can help you understand what may be happening with your child’s development. Early support makes a big difference, and we’re here to guide you through the next steps—so your child gets the help they need to grow and thrive.

Feeling Unsure About Your Child’s Development? You’re Not Alone.

We help families navigate the maze of services and decisions that come with developmental concerns.

If you’ve ever asked yourself...

  • Why isn’t my child talking as much as other kids?

  • Why is it so hard to understand her speech?

  • Why does he fall so often or run so awkwardly?

  • Why does she melt down over things that don’t seem like a big deal?

  • Why does he have so much energy — is it more than typical?

  • Am I overreacting... or is there something more going on?

    …you’re in the right place.

    At Next Step, we listen to your instincts, help you make sense of what you’re noticing, and guide you through your next steps — with clarity, compassion, and expertise.

Lesley GUDGEL,
Founder & Consultant

With over 35 years of experience in child development Lesley has helped hundreds of families better understand their children’s developmental needs. She brings deep clinical insight - and a grandmother’s wisdom - to every session.

  • “Next Step helped us understand our son’s sensory issues and find the right support—everything finally clicked.”

    — Parent of 4-year-old

  • “We felt lost before speaking with Next Step. After just one session, we gained clarity and a renewed sense of hope.”

    — Parent of 3-year-old with speech delay

  • “Next Step explains things in a way that truly makes sense. They gave us real, practical tools—not just theory.”

    — Parent of 7-year-old with ADHD

HOW NEXT STEP CAN HELP

First Phone Call

We’ll briefly discuss your child’s development to identify strengths, areas of concern, and those that may require extra support. (10-15 minute call, no charge)

Intake & Developmental Screening

We’ll meet in person (or virtually) with your little one to get to know each other and complete intake and developmental screenings and/or assessments. 

Resources & Referral

After screenings and assessments are completed, we will meet virtually or in person to review the results and discuss next steps. You’ll receive a summary with recommendations.

Consultation & Support

We’re here as a supportive space where parents can share openly, ask questions, and sort through the challenges of parenting—because your well-being is just as important as your child’s.

Families we support

  • School Navigation Parent (e.g. “Jen, Mom of a 7-year-old in 1st grade”)

    Her child is struggling in school but isn’t getting support. She’s unsure what an IEP is, how to ask for school testing, or whether outside therapy is needed. She seeks coaching on how to advocate effectively and what her rights are.

  • Just Diagnosed Family (e.g. “Derek & Mia, Parents of a kindergartener with autism”)

    They recently received an autism diagnosis and are overwhelmed. They need help understanding what the report means, what services to pursue (school IEP, private therapy, etc.), and how to coordinate it all. They value digestible checklists, parent-to-parent advice, and clear explanations.

  • Concerned Parent (e.g. “Aisha, 33, Mom of a 3-year-old”)

    She’s noticed that her child isn’t speaking much, or avoids social interaction. She doesn’t know whether to wait, call her pediatrician, or seek therapy. She searches online for "speech delay in toddlers" or “what to do if child isn’t talking.” She wants trusted, step-by-step guidance — without judgment.

Take the next step, today.

FAQs

  • Next Step Child Development offers personalized guidance for parents who are navigating early developmental concerns, new diagnoses (like autism or ADHD), or school-related challenges (like IEPs or classroom struggles). We’re here to help you understand your options, make confident decisions, and advocate effectively — with clarity, warmth, and no judgment.

  • You’re not alone. We specialize in helping families make sense of new diagnoses. That includes explaining what the reports actually mean, mapping out your next steps (like school support, therapies, or accommodations), and helping you prioritize what matters most for your child’s well-being — and yours.

  • It depends — and we can help you figure that out. Next Step Child Development is designed to be your first call when you’re unsure what kind of help is right. Whether it’s guiding you to the right professionals or supporting you through school meetings, we help you see the big picture and choose the right path.