Health Screenings

Developmental and Health Screenings There are specific health conditions that impact learning and development, which can be identified and treated early. These conditions can be identified through early health screening.

Screening is the first step in getting to know a child at the beginning of each enrollment year. This “baseline data” helps staff plan and individualize services. It also helps them identify “red flags” for further examination or evaluation. When concerns go unidentified, they can lead to bigger problems.23 Screening helps staff and families:

 Celebrate milestones: Every family looks forward to seeing a child’s first smile, first step, and first words. Regular screenings with early childhood professionals help raise awareness of a child’s development, making it easier to celebrate developmental milestones.

 Promote universal screening: All children need support in the early years to stay healthy and happy. Just like regular hearing and vision screenings can assure that children are able to hear and see clearly, developmental and behavioral screenings can assure that children are making progress in areas such as language, social, or motor development.

 Identify possible delays and concerns early: With regular screenings, families, teachers, and other professionals can assure that young children get the services and supports they need as early as possible to help them thrive.

 Enhance developmental supports: Families are children’s first and most important teachers. Tools, guidance, and tips recommended by experts, can help families support their children’s development.24

Screening is part of a larger process professionals use to learn about children’s health and development. In partnership with families, developmental monitoring (or surveillance), screening, and assessment keep children on track developmentally.