Preschool Child Find Screening
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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.
| Special Services Department 621 Bluff Rd. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 231-6773 |
Preschool Special Education/Child Find 5935 Token Street Columbia, SC 29203 (803) 691-3993 |