What type of query would best help a teacher understand a child’s specific developmental needs?

Conducting a family interview or survey is beneficial for understanding a child's specific developmental needs because it provides direct insights from those who know the child best. Family members can share valuable information about the child's behavior, preferences, challenges, and strengths within the context of their home environment. This qualitative data can highlight areas that may not be observable in a school setting, allowing teachers to tailor their approaches and support strategies effectively.

While consulting textbooks on child psychology or reviewing state curriculum guidelines may provide general information about child development and educational standards, they do not take into account the individual child's unique circumstances and needs. Observing the child in different school settings is useful for understanding how they interact with peers and the learning environment but may not capture the broader context of their life experiences and family dynamics as well as family interviews can. Thus, the targeted nature of family input makes it the most effective query for gaining an in-depth understanding of a child's developmental requirements.