Information Compiled by The Watertown Unified School District Early Childhood Program

What is Developmental Screening?

• Screening is the first step in finding your child's strengths and weaknesses.
• Screening is a brief test of a child's development.
• Screening alerts us to a possible difficulty in learning new skills
• Screening can also tell us that a child is developing as expected for his/her age.

Why are Children Screened?

Young children develop rapidly. When a child with a special need receives help, early intervention can significantly influence a child's abilities and developmental potential and prevent secondary handicapping conditions from occurring.

How will my child and I participate?

There are several ways to participate in screening. The Watertown Unified School District mails a screening booklet to all three and four year old children each spring. These are mailed to all children as listed on the school census. If you would like to receive a booklet, please contact the District Office at 920-262-1460. This booklet is completed by the child with parent direction. It is mailed back to the school district and reviewed by Early Childhood professionals. Parents are informed of the results and of any further need for screening.

If there is any concern observed by a parent, teacher, or care-giver, a more detailed screening is scheduled. During this time a closer look is given to the areas of:

• Motor development
• Communication skills
• Problem solving abilities
• Self-help skills
• Sensory areas
• Hearing
• Vision
• Social development

Your child may:

• Move about
• Play with toys or games
• Meet new people
• Answer questions

Parents may:

• Give information about thier child
• Watch their child
• Receive screening results

Where do I go?

-Local School Districts
-Early Childhood Programs
-Country birth-to-three early intervention programs
-Public Health Services - WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
-Pre-School & Day Care Centers
-Doctors' Offices

What can I do to prepare my child?

No formal training or practicing skills will ever replace the growth gained naturally from play and the security of family.

Reading to you child is always a wonderful way to enrich your child's skills

Whether you are completing the screening booklet at home, or bringing your child in for screening, you need only to relax and let your child show you his/her best effort. The best preparation for screening is to simply come and enjoy the experience with your child.

Contact Information

Phone Number:
Office: 920-262-1460

FAX number:
920-262-1469