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Early Learning Blog

About Early Childhood Screening

Written by Stacey Koehler, Licensed Parent Educator

The early childhood years from birth to age 5 are a time of rapid growth and learning. Early Childhood Screening is a quick and simple check of your child's development and school readiness skills. 

All students between the ages of 3-5 are required by the state of Minnesota to have an early childhood screening. Screening is needed for participation in some preschools and prior to entering kindergarten. Screening helps to identify children who may benefit from school and community resources to help in their development. This screening may help connect your family to free learning opportunities, such as prekindergarten programming, Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE). 

The state of Minnesota recommends an interpreter be used for the child if English is not the primary language spoken at home because using the home language can provide a better picture of a child’s development. Interpreter services are provided at no cost to the family.

Screening is free and includes growth, development and immunization checks. Your child will be assessed in these important areas: 

  • Fine and gross motor skills
  • Speech and language  development
  • Cognitive and social development
  • Vision and hearing
  • Height and weight
  • Immunizations

There are three easy and convenient ways to schedule your child's early childhood screening with Richfield Public Schools.

We look forward to meeting your family!
 

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