PRESCHOOL CHILD FIND SCREENING

What Is Child Find?

Child Find is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) that requires districts to locate, identify, and evaluate children ages 3 to 21 who may have disability.

Why Should I Call?

Services are available to assist children with special needs. Call to schedule a screening appointment if you are concerned that a child may have a delay in one or more of the following areas of development:

• Cognitive Skills
• Communication Skills
• Daily Living Skills
• Motor Skills
• Vision
• Hearing

Parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers may make a referral. However, a parent or legal guardian must give written permission for screening to occur. There is no cost for screening, evaluation, or recommended services.

Who Should I Call?

PRESCHOOL CHILDREN:

If you are aware of a preschooler  from 3 to 5 years of age who may need special services, please call (803) 691-3993 or (803) 691-4929 to schedule an appointment.

 SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN:

If you have a child already in a Richland One school who may need special services,  please contact your school and express your concerns to your child’s teacher, school administrator, or guidance counselor.

 HOMESCHOOL/PRIVATE SCHOOL STUDENTS:

Please contact the Special Services Department at (803) 231-6778.

What Is a Screening?

A screening is a series of short tests and professional observations in various developmental areas. For ages 3—5, screening days are held throughout the year at our Preschool Evaluation Center located in the Pendergrass-Fairwold Center. The student will rotate through the following screening stations according to need:

• Vision, Hearing, Speech
• Language, Developmental
• Occupational Therapy (OT) / Physical Therapy (PT)

Children who are suspected of having a delay in one or more areas will be recommended for a further evaluation to determine if they qualify for special education services.

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