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Family Files

Early Childhood Screenings

Should my child be walking by now?  Is my child saying enough words for his age?  Is my child supposed to be recognizing written words?  When do kids begin to write their name?

Sound familiar?  Many parents are not sure if their child's development is on track or not.  One resource available to parents is developmental screenings.  Many doctors' offices work this into regular well-baby check-ups, but if they don't, ask!  The health care provider may then either ask the parent some questions about development or give a parent a screening tool for them to complete themselves.  Don't panic!  These screening tools are designed to be used by parents so they ask common questions such as "Does your child help turn the pages in a book?" or "When your child wants something, does she tell you by pointing to it?"

There are other places besides your doctor's office where your child can receive a free developmental screening.  For children under the age of 3, contact your local Child and Family Connections offices.  To find the office nearest you:  http://www.wiu.edu/coehs/provider_connections/links/CFCList.html

For children over the age of 3, contact your local school districts.  Most school districts provide public screenings at least yearly, frequently in the spring. 

For more information on developmental screenings, please visit our friends at the Illinois Early Learning Project and type in screenings in the search box in the upper right hand corner.