Power Up for Kindergarten: Understanding Developmental Screenings
As children grow and get ready for kindergarten, families often wonder if their child is developing the way they should be. Questions about speech, behavior, learning, or social skills are common—and they’re an important part of supporting a child’s healthy development.
That’s where developmental screenings come in.
Developmental screenings are simple tools that help families understand how their child is growing and learning. They’re not tests, and they don’t provide a diagnosis. Instead, they offer helpful information and peace of mind—and early support when it’s needed.
What Are Developmental Screenings?
Developmental screenings are brief check‑ins that look at how a child is developing in areas such as:
- Language and communication
- Motor skills, like moving, walking, and using hands
- Social and emotional development
- Learning, thinking, and problem‑solving
Screenings compare a child’s development to typical milestones for their age. Every child grows at their own pace, and screenings help identify strengths as well as areas where a child might benefit from extra support.
Why Developmental Screenings Matter
The years leading up to kindergarten are an important time for learning and growth. Developmental screenings help families:
- Better understand their child’s development
- Catch potential concerns early—when support is most effective
- Celebrate progress and strengths
- Connect to resources if questions arise
Many families worry that screenings mean “something is wrong.” In reality, screenings are a routine and helpful way to understand how children are developing—and they often confirm that a child is doing just fine.
How Help Me Grow Supports Families
Help Me Grow is a free resource that connects families to developmental screenings, guidance, and support. Families can complete screenings and talk through results with trained professionals who understand early childhood development.
At ELCNWF, Help Me Grow Care Coordinators are available to:
- Answer questions about child development
- Help families complete developmental screenings
- Explain screening results in clear, supportive language
- Connect families to local services or resources when needed
Care Coordinators work with families every step of the way, ensuring they feel informed and supported—never overwhelmed.
Developmental Screenings Are for All Families
Developmental screenings aren’t just for children who may need extra help. They’re valuable for all families—especially during times of transition, like preparing for kindergarten.
Screenings help families:
- Feel confident about school readiness
- Understand developmental expectations
- Know when to watch, wait, or reach out for support
They also create opportunities for early help, which can make a big difference in a child’s success in school and beyond.
Trust Your Questions—and Know Help Is Available
If you’ve ever wondered:
- “Is this typical for my child’s age?”
- “Should my child be doing this by now?”
- “What should I do if I have concerns?”
Those questions matter. Asking them is an important step in supporting your child.
You don’t have to search for answers alone.
Connect with Help Me Grow
If you’d like to learn more about developmental screenings or talk with someone about your child’s development, Help Me Grow is here for you.
Email:
[email protected]
Website:
www.elcnwf.org/helpmegrow
Help Me Grow Care Coordinators are ready to listen, answer questions, and help families take the next best step—whatever that step may be.
Coming Up Next
In the next post, we’ll continue the kindergarten readiness conversation by exploring how families, schools, and community supports work together to help children start kindergarten feeling confident and ready to learn.
It’s time to Power Up for Kindergarten—by understanding your child’s development and knowing when to reach out for support.