The Child Find process for this age group typically begins with a parent or physician referral for a developmental concern, but can be submitted through various sources. The concern can be in the areas of motor skills, cognitive skills, language, and general development. Here is what you can expect:

1. The Resource Exchange is contacted and a referral form is sent to the Child Find Coordinator in the child’s school district. 
2. The Child Find Coordinator will contact the family to gather information and schedule an in-home appointment for an evaluation, which must be completed within 45 days of the referral.
3. If the child is eligible for services, the Service Coordinator will schedule a second in-home meeting with the family and an appropriate provider to create an Individualized Family Service Plan. Services will begin within 28 days from the completion of the Individualized Family Service Plan.
4. Within 90 days before the child’s third birthday, the Service Coordinator will contact the family to begin transitioning the child from early intervention to the school district services if applicable.

Screening Process

District 49 provides free screenings for families who have concerns about their child’s development. Concerns could be in the areas of movement, speech, hearing, academic, or interactions with friends.

What can I expect?

1. Information about your child will be gathered, including address, date of birth, and any concerns.
2. An appointment is scheduled for a group screening.
3. Information is sent to you via email. You will also need your child’s birth certificate, parent i.d., proof of residence, and the child’s immunizations.
4. Your child’s hearing and vision will be checked by the nurse. The Early Childhood Special Education Teacher and Speech-Language Pathologist will screen your child to determine if further evaluation is necessary.
5. If further evaluations are suggested, you will be given an acceptance letter to enroll your child into our student information system so we can complete the appropriate paperwork. Once that is complete, the Child Find Coordinator will contact you to set up a Special Education evaluation.

What can I expect during an initial evaluation:

1. A full evaluation through a play-based assessment, with other standardized assessments as needed, in the area of concern will be conducted.
2. Parents are the most important team members in an evaluation. Team members will have questions for you.
3. Team members will review their findings and eligibility for services will be determined.
4. If determined eligible, your child will be placed in a District 49 preschool.  Programs are four days per week for three hours per day. Service will be provided in the classroom.
5. An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be completed at the school with appropriate team members to include parent(s) and service will begin shortly