How Early Childhood Screenings Help Prepare Kids For Kindergarten

The school year is coming to an end soon, and kids all across Central Minnesota will be relieved that they have a full summer ahead without classes and homework.

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Parents will have to find ways to keep their kids safe and occupied while they’re out of school. Some will try to help their kids stay sharp in certain educational areas so they’re ready in the fall.

For parents of young children who haven’t started school yet, having your kids ready when they start is important. Giving them the best opportunities out of the gate could set them on the right path for years to come.

Evaluation Is Key

The Minnesota Department of Education needs these parents to participate in Early Childhood Screenings. The years between birth and kindergarten are a pivotal time.

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The Early Childhood Screening will evaluate the child’s height, weight, eyesight and hearing along with looking at their immunization records.

This program will also review and try to determine other risk factors by evaluating the child’s thinking, language and speaking skills, and the emotional development of a child.

When Does This Need To Happen?

The Early Childhood Program is available to kids starting at 3 and must be completed by the first week of kindergarten or first grade. The program is available throughout the year so once your child turns 3 you can contact the school district where your child will attend.

There are also other non-school programs that you could contact if you choose. Those programs like Head Start, Child and Teen Checkups, and Periodic Screening Diagnostic and Treatment.

Photo by Kristin Brown on Unsplash

If a parent wishes for their child not to go through this program and evaluation, there are steps that need to taken for that to happen and those parents will need to work with the School District on that topic.