Early Childhood Screening

All about Early Childhood Screening

What is Early Childhood Screening?

• Early Childhood Screening (ECS) is a program that helps:

  • To find out how your child is growing and developing.

  • To connect parent and child with school and community resources if needed.

  • To answer any parenting questions/concerns you may have.

• The screening is required by law for entrance into Kindergarten in Minnesota public schools. It is important to have children screened at an early age so there is adequate time to obtain help for any identified concerns before the child enters school. There is no cost to families for Early Childhood Screening. Minnesota Department of Health (ECS) Video.

• Early childhood developmental screening helps a school district identify children who may benefit from district and community resources available to help in their development. Early childhood developmental screening includes a vision screening that helps detect potential eye problems but is not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam.

Who needs to be screened?

• all children, 3 years old and older.

• Minnesota state law requires that all children participate in Early Childhood Screening before entering a public school kindergarten. Some private schools also require it.

• Children who attend Head Start or Early Childhood Special Education programs may not need to be screened.

Why should my child be screened?

• Screening provides a way for parents to learn more about their child and find out about resources to prepare your child for school success.

• Early Childhood Screening is required by state law.

When should the screening be done?

• All children, 3 years old and older, are invited to screening. Early screening will confirm that your child is either progressing normally or experiencing delays that will benefit from early intervention.

• If your child is younger than 3 years old and you have concerns about development, please call Early Childhood Information 507-238-4487.

What does this screening include?

• • vision and hearing check

  • growth screening

  • immunization review

  • developmental progress using a standardized tool

  • family health and development review

  • information and resources for your child

Where can screening be done?

• The school district provides monthly screenings.

• Your child's Head Start program is authorized to complete an Early Childhood Screening.

• Your family physician may do the screening if a standardized development test is used. Check with your doctor's office to see if their screening meets the state's requirements. Please bring a signed Physician's Summary Report to your child's school.

How do I get an appointment?

• Call 507-238-4487 to make an appointment.

• Screening appointments are offered monthly. Appointment times fill up quickly, so please call early.

• Each appointment will take approximately 2 hours. Parents will fill out paperwork and are encouraged to bring something to fill their time while waiting for their child's screening to be completed. There is no cost to families for Early Childhood Screening.

How should we get ready for screening?

• Bring your child healthy, well-rested, fed and in comfortable clothes.

• Assure your child that they will be playing games with a teacher. Most children have fun at screening.

• Allow 2 hours for registration, screening, and summary.

• If possible, arrange care for siblings so you can focus on the child being screened.

What can I expect when we come for screening?

• You will fill out registration forms and review the process at the end.

• Your child will have their height and weight recorded, do some developmental activities with a teacher, and have their vision and hearing checked.