Early Childhood Screening

The State of Minnesota requests that children should ideally be screened between the ages of 3.5 and 4 years old. Early screening will confirm that your child is either progressing normally or experiencing delays that could benefit from early intervention.

• Vision and hearing check
• Growth evaluation
• Immunization review
• Developmental screening using a Minnesota state approved standardized tool
• Family health and development review
• Information and resources for your child

It does not include recommendations on whether your child is ready for kindergarten. Kindergarten entrance is based on the state age criteria of 5 years of age on or before September 1 and a parent’s decision.

Screening offers a snapshot of your child’s health and development. It may indicate the need for further health or developmental assessment. This allows time for early intervention before the start of kindergarten.

District 196 screening is offered free to district residents. Screening takes place at the District Service Center located at 14301 Diamond Path in Apple Valley, Minnesota. Minnesota screening requirements may also take place through another school district, a physician’s office, the Head Start program or the Minnesota Department of Public Health.

The screening can be done by:

• A licensed teacher and a registered nurse; 
• Your family physician, if a state approved developmental tool is used. (Check with your doctor’s office to see if their screening meets the state’s requirements), or
• Children who attend Head Start or Early Childhood Special Education programs may not need to be screened.