Which of the following is NOT an objective observation when assessing a developmental delay?

• A. Aiden doesn't like loud noises.
• B. Aiden avoids loud noises during activities.
• C. Aiden covers his ears when noises are loud.
• D. Aiden responds to loud noises with eye contact.

Answer: (A)

When assessing developmental delay, focus on objective observations—things you can see and measure—rather than statements about what a child prefers or feels. The option stating that Aiden doesn’t like loud noises describes a preference or emotional state, which isn’t directly observable in a way that can be consistently recorded. It relies on interpretation or caregiver report and isn’t a verifiable action. The other statements describe concrete, observable behaviors: avoiding loud noises during activities; covering ears when noises are loud; and even the reaction of making eye contact in response to noise. These are actions you can watch, note, and track across contexts, making them objective.