What is Early Childhood Screening?

The early childhood years, from birth to the start of kindergarten, are an important time of rapid learning and growth. Early Childhood Screening is a quick and simple check of how your child is growing and developing. Between the ages of 3 and 4, screening can detect possible health or learning concerns, so that children can get help before they start school.

At your child's screening, a trained professional will check:

  • vision;
  • hearing;
  • height and weight;
  • immunization (shots) status;
  • large and small muscles;
  • thinking, language, and communication skills; and
  • social and emotional development

Should I wait until my child is in kindergarten?

No, earlier is better! Waiting until a child is in school may be waiting too long. If your child is between the ages of 3 and 4, now is the time to make an appointment.

Does my child need an Early Childhood Screening?

In order for your child to start kindergarten in any Minnesota public school, they need to complete Early Childhood Screening. All of the information from your child's screening is important to his or her future school success. After screening, you will know how your child is growing, developing, and learning.

If your child has been screened by another school district, Early Childhood Special Education, or Head Start, your child does not need to be screened again, but a summary copy must be on file with the current school district your child will be attending. Contact the Waconia Early Childhood Screening office at (952) 442-0613 for information on how to have screening records forwarded to the school district.

Is there a charge?

No, Early Childhood Screening is FREE!

How do I make an Early Childhood Screening appointment?

Screenings are offered throughout the school year at the Early Childhood Family Education Center, 520 Industrial Boulevard, in Waconia.  Click HERE to make an appointment.

The following dates are offered:

Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 pm   Jan. 25, Feb. 22, March 14, April 25, May 9

Fridays, 8:00-1:15 pm   Dec. 1, Jan. 12, Jan. 26, Feb. 9, Feb. 23, March 15, April 12, April 26, May 10

Tuesday, May 14

Make an Appointment Online
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Early Childhood Screening
Contact Us

Early Childhood Programs
520 Industrial Blvd.  Waconia, MN  55387
952-442-0613

Laura Jaede, Interim Program Supervisor  ljaede@isd110.org

Brenda Buesgens, Administrative Assistant  bbuesgens@isd110.org