Early Childhood Screening
Early Childhood Screening is a free and simple check of how your child is growing, developing and learning.
Early Childhood Screening is a free developmental check-up required by the State of Minnesota for all preschool-aged children entering public kindergarten. The MN Department of Education recommends ALL children age 3–5 are screened. The parent(s) attend with their child and participate in a summary review of the screening results, and discuss questions or concerns.
Early Childhood Screening (ECS) is required by state law and must be completed before a child enters public Kindergarten. ECS includes two parts:
- Developmental screening to evaluate your child’s motor development, social/emotional, speech and language, and cognition skills.
- Health screening which includes a vision, hearing, an immunization review, and a height/weight check.
Screening is an free opportunity to assist in identifying any concerns or problems at an early age. Early intervention allows children to be ready for kindergarten. Families may be referred for educational/community services.
This is also an excellent opportunity for parents to become familiar with our preschool program and early childhood resources available in the community. Appointments are scheduled when children are 3-1/2 to 4 years old.
Screening Details
Who should be screened?
Delano School District children who are 3.5–5 years old and not enrolled in kindergarten. We recommend you complete your child’s screening at 3.5 years.
What to bring to a screening appointment:
- Any questions you have about your child's growth and development
- Your child's immunization record (shots).
- Your child's primary health care provider (doctor) name and number.
What to expect at a screening appointment:
A trained professional will check:
- Vision and hearing
- Height and weight
- Immunizations (shots)
- Large and small muscles
- Thinking, language and communication skills
- Social and emotional development
More information
This screening may help you link to other free learning opportunities, such as pre-kindergarten programming, Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), Minnesota early learning scholarships for high-quality care and education, Head Start, Home Visiting and Early Childhood Special Education.
Schedule an appointment
2025/26 screening dates
- Friday, September 26
- Saturday, September 27
- Friday, October 24
- Saturday, October 25
- Thursday, November 13
- Friday, November 14
- Saturday, November 15
- Thursday, January 22
- Friday, January 23
- Thursday, February 19
- Friday, February 20
- Thursday, March 12
- Friday, March 13
- Saturday, March 14
- Thursday, April 9
- Friday, April 10
