CARE for Children and McKean County Birth to Three Early Intervention will host a free developmental screening event, including vision checks, for children from birth to age 3 on Wednesday, October 21, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Ashley Booth Griffin CARE for Children Center, 723 East Main Street, Bradford. Attendees should use the Russell Boulevard parking lot and entrance.
The event will give families an opportunity to learn more about their child’s development and ask questions about developmental milestones. Screenings will include a developmental assessment, vision checks, and information about social-emotional development, infant mental health, and child safety. Each participating child will receive an age-appropriate developmental toy.
CARE for Children therapists, Early Intervention Service Coordinators, and local Early Intervention providers will be available to conduct screenings and talk with families.
“Identifying developmental concerns early gives children the best opportunity to build critical skills during a key period of growth,” said Tabatha Johnson, Service Coordinator Supervisor for McKean County Birth to Three Early Intervention. “When supports are put in place early, it can have a lasting impact on a child’s overall development and success.”
Ashley Carlson, MOT, OTR/L, CARE Pediatric Therapy Services Director, said screenings are beneficial for all children, even when there are no obvious concerns.
“A screening provides a helpful snapshot of a child’s progress at a specific point in time,” Carlson said. “It gives families a chance to ask questions, better understand developmental milestones, and learn simple ways to support their child’s continued growth.”
Early Intervention services support the foundational skills children develop during their first three years, including communication, movement, learning, and social interaction. When concerns are identified, families can be connected with appropriate services and professionals. Early Intervention services are provided at no cost to eligible families.
To register: Call McKean County Early Intervention at 814-975-1221 or CARE for Children at 814-362-4621. Walk-ins also are welcome.
Families who cannot attend the event may contact McKean County Infant/Toddler Early Intervention at 814-975-1221 to arrange a screening at home. Families outside McKean County can call the CONNECT Help Line at 1-800-692-7288 to be connected with their local Early Intervention office.
The Early Intervention Screening Day is sponsored by a grant from the ARG-Our Legacy Fund held at the McKean County Community Foundation.
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