Monitoring Children's Development/Obtaining Consent for Screening

Programs should have a process in place for age-appropriate developmental and behavioral screenings for all children at the beginning of a child's enrollment in the program, at least yearly thereafter, and as developmental concerns become apparent to staff and/or parents/guardians. Providers may choose to conduct screenings, themselves; partner with a local agency/health care provider/specialist who would conduct the screening; or work with parents in connecting them to resources to ensure that screening occurs. This process should consist of parental/guardian education, consent, and participation as well as connection to resources and support, including the primary health care provider, as needed. Results of screenings should be documented in child records.