Childfind screening offered

The Odessa School District, in cooperation with Educational Service District #101, will be providing a Childfind Screening clinic on Thursday, May 23, 2013. The screening will be offered at no cost to children of concern aged three through five. By identifying children with special needs or possible disabilities at an early age, the school district can better prepare for their future educational needs.

The screening will take place at P.C. Jantz Elementary School. The screening itself takes about an hour to complete. During this time, a screening test will be administered to assess the child’s language, motor and conceptual skills.

The child’s primary caregiver will be asked to fill out a questionnaire in order to collect important background information about the child’s developmental milestones. This allows the caregiver to express whatever concerns he or she may have about the child. The child’s baby book may aid in answering some of the questions. It may also be helpful to prepare your child by telling himor her that he/she will be meeting new people and playing some games with them.

Anyone with concerns about a child between the ages of 3 and 5 years old who would like to make an appointment to have them screened is aqsked to call the elementary school office at 982-2603. If the concern is for a child who is under three years of age, a separate referral may be made.

Tell friends and neighbors with preschoolers about the Odessa School District screenings. They too, may obtain a free screening by calling for an appointment.

We look forward to meeting you and your child.

Appointments for screenings are necessary and can be obtained by contacting the school district. Parents who would like more information about the screening or to make an appointment to have a preschooler screened should call the elementary office at 982-2603.