Heather Latter
Parents wondering how their child is developing will be able to have their questions put to rest next week as the Developmental Services Team at Family and Children’s Services here hosts an open screening session.
“It’s to make sure your child is on track developmentally for the age that they are,” explained child development worker Tami LeBlanc.
“It’s just a screening tool, not to put a diagnosis on them,” she stressed.
She noted if the child shows evidence that indicates they need further testing in certain areas, then they can refer the child for a full examination.
But LeBlanc said in most cases, the screening simply proves a child is on the right track.
“You might just be curious as to whether your child in developing appropriately for their age and if they are, then you have that piece of mind,” she reasoned.
On the other hand, if the screening does indicate an area where a child may be lacking, then it is good to catch it early on.
“It’s better to be able to get them the assistance they need as soon as possible, rather then waiting until they’re older,” LeBlanc said.
The screening session, which is geared for children aged 12 months to four-and-a-half years, will take about 20-45 minutes to complete.
LeBlanc said they provide testing in the following areas: fine motor, gross motor, receptive language, expressive language, auditory attention and memory, and visual attention and memory.
“There are 12 items that I administer to them,” she explained.
“It obviously varies with their age, going by how many months old they are.
“It’s very basic, every-day items,” she noted. “Such as recognizing pictures and being able to draw horizontal and vertical lines, things like that.”
LeBlanc added it is good for all children to be screened, regardless of their background, culture, or gender.
Parents interested in having their child tested are invited to attend the open screening session next Wednesday (March 23) from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the FACS office in Suite 200 at 240 First St. E. (the old high school).
While parents are welcome to drop in, they also can book an appointment by calling 274-7787 ext. 227.
