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Early Childhood Screening

Early​ ​Childhood​ ​Screening​ is an important, free check of how your child is growing, developing, and learning. This screening is a Minnesota public school requirement. Ideally, children participate in screening between the ages of 3 - 5. Don’t wait — earlier is better!

Schedule a Screening Appointment

Screenings have returned to an in-person format as directed by the Minnesota Department of Education and Minnesota Department of Health.
 

  1. Email Early Childhood Screening To begin the scheduling process, please send an email to ecscreening@orono.k12.mn.us with the following information: child’s full name, parent names, date of birth, projected kindergarten year, phone number and email address.

  2. Watch for a return email  You will receive an email response from our Early Childhood Screener with important details and a link to our Sign-Up Genius for scheduling.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Where do we go for Early Childhood Screening appointments?

Discovery Center - Room 210
5050 Independence Street, Maple Plain, MN 55359

Note: enter the main entrance and check in at the Early Learning office

What happens during an Early Childhood Screening appointment?

Screenings are completed by trained professionals who will complete a brief screening of your child’s:
  • Vision and hearing

  • Height and weight

  • Speech and language development

  • Gross motor and fine motor skills

  • Cognitive development

  • Social and emotional development

  • Immunization status

What should I expect?

  • Screening will last approximately one hour.
  • You will accompany your child throughout the screening process, so please attempt to arrange child care for siblings/other children if possible.

  • The results of the screening will be shared with you at the end of your appointment.

What should I tell my child about the appointment?

  • This screening is play-based. You can prepare your child by telling them they will play games with a Preschool teacher. Activities include “seeing and hearing games,” building blocks, drawing, jumping, talking and playing.
  • Assure your child that you will be in the same room with them throughout the screening.

What if my child was screened elsewhere?

Your child may also be screened at their Head Start, Child and Teen Check-ups, another school district or a clinic that offers developmental screening. The Orono School district will need a copy of the screening summary before your child starts Kindergarten.

What if my child has an IEP?

If your child has a current Individual Education Plan (IEP), you can choose to waive the requirement for Early Childhood Screening. Please consult your Special Education Case Manager to discuss further.
Note: Parents may choose to conscientiously object

Parents may conscientiously object to the state screening program. Read Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.16-19 and Minnesota Rules, part 3530.3000-4310 for more information.

Additional questions?

Please call 952-746-5815 or email ecscreening@orono.k12.mn.us.

Thank you! We look forward to meeting you and your child.