Why Developmental Screening Matters

The first five years of life are the most important years for brain development. During these early years, more than 90% of the brain develops, creating the foundation for learning, language, behavior, relationships, and lifelong health. Because young children's brains are developing so rapidly, identifying strengths and addressing concerns early can have a lasting impact. Developmental screening is a quick, research-based way to better understand how a child is growing and developing. It is not a test and does not diagnose a child. Instead, it helps families celebrate their child's progress while identifying opportunities to provide support when it can make the greatest difference. Developmental screening: Celebrates your child's unique strengths and development. Checks whether your child is meeting important developmental milestones. Identifies concerns early, when support is most effective. Connects families with helpful resources and services when needed. Provides ideas and strategies to support learning and development at home. Helps children build the skills needed for success in Kindergarten and beyond. Strengthens partnerships between families, educators, healthcare providers, and the community. A strong start lasts a lifetime. Research consistently shows that children who enter Kindergarten ready to learn are more likely to read proficiently by third grade, achieve higher academic success, graduate from high school, pursue postsecondary education or career training, and experience better lifelong health and economic outcomes. By identifying strengths early and providing support when needed, developmental screening helps ensure every child has the opportunity to begin school confident, capable, and ready to thrive.