Abstract:

The current article provides an overview of developmental screening tools and their usefulness for early intervention and early childhood special education. Research shows that systematic screening can lead to earlier identification of children in need of services. Early identification and intervention leads to better outcomes for young children at risk for a developmental delay or disorder. Appropriate screening tools are reliable, valid, and practical for use by classroom teachers and families. Input from parents is especially important for considering screening results. Follow-up actions to screening may include rescreening, targeted assessments, or initiated service coordination. Screening has additional value for program and classroom planning. Further research is needed to allow for the implementation of screening practices in countries currently without systematic screening.

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