Did you know that the first five years of your child’s life are among the most important for his development? Many times delays aren’t recognized until elementary school or later. But did you also know that there are free tools available to help you recognize if he is meeting his milestones, or identify areas where additional support can assist your family? These important tools can help you get your little one off to the right start early on!
Summit DD has teamed up with First Things First to focus on early childhood development. First Things First is a coalition of agencies in Summit County concentrated on the success of kids and families, and together we are offering free, online tools which evaluate your child’s development. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire, 3rd edition (ASQ-3) focuses on your child’s development and crucial milestones. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social Emotional (ASQ: SE) gauges your child’s emotional and social development. And both assessments are available at your fingertips 24 hours a day!
“Screenings are an important tool that parents can take advantage of to monitor their child’s development,” Summit DD Director of Children’s Services, Holly Brugh explained. “The ASQ-3 and the ASQ: SE covers babies and toddlers from three to 60 months. It’s free, easy-to-use, and can be taken in the privacy of your home.”
You will be asked a series of questions about your child, specific to his age. Questions focus on communication, gross motor and fine motor skills, problem-solving skills, and social and emotional abilities. In just 10-15 minutes, parents can complete each online assessment. Questionnaires are sent directly to Summit DD, where they are reviewed by one of our early childhood professionals. Each child will receive individualized results and recommendations. If your child is experiencing significant delays, our early childhood professionals can refer your family to Ohio Early Intervention to determine if your child is eligible for early intervention services, at no cost you.
“We want every child to get the best start possible,” said Brugh. “And screening tools like the ASQ-3 and the ASQ: SE were created with that in mind.” A good life starts with a good beginning. Start your child’s path to success today with the ASQ-3 and the ASQ:SE.
