If you answered yes, the All Our Kids Early Childhood Network will be hosting FREE early childhood developmental screenings throughout Will County on a variety of days, times, and locations. For a list of free screening dates and locations, visit http://swgk.org/?page_id=701 . If you have a child that is 3 years old or older, you can visit or call your local school district to find out about what preschool programs are available.
What are the benefits to a free developmental screening? It’s a simple check of your child’s overall development. Most parents get concerned when they measure their child against another sibling or a friend’s child of the same age. It is important for parents to understand all children develop at different times and in different areas. Not all children will walk or talk at the same age. During a developmental screening, parents can learn what normal development is and what the range their child should achieve those developmental milestones. These screenings are for every stage of your child’s development, not just if you think they may be falling behind.
Developmental screenings focus on communication, fine motor, gross motor, personal-social, and problem-solving skills. It takes about 15 minutes for the parent to fill out the questionnaire. Results are given immediately. More information about child development and resources can be given if needed. The questionnaire is available in English and Spanish.
The All Our Kids Early Childhood Network screening committee is comprised of early childhood providers in the community that promote universal screenings for all children (ages 2 months-3 years old) in Will County. All Our Kids Early Childhood Network screening partners include Child and Family Connections, One Hope United, Easter Seals and the Jumpstart program, Catholic Charities, and Governor State University Family Development Center. For more information on the All Our Kids Early Childhood Network at the Will County Health Department, visit http://willcountyhealth.org/aok-all-our-kids-early-childhood-network/ .