Early Childhood Screening

The years from birth to the start of kindergarten are an important time of rapid learning and growth. Early Childhood Screening is a free, quick and simple check of your child's development.

Early Childhood Screening is required by the state of Minnesota for all children prior to entering kindergarten. Screening offers a snapshot of each child’s health and development and provides families with valuable information about their child. Screening children between ages three and four allows time for intervention (if needed) before the start of Kindergarten. For this reason, we require Early Childhood screening within the first 90 days of the start of the preschool year. Parents/caregivers will have the opportunity to discuss the results of the screening with an Early Childhood Screening staff member. The entire process should take about 60 minutes or less.

All families in the Chisago Lakes School District are invited to schedule a free screening appointment. Screenings are held throughout the school year. Call 651-213-2282 to schedule an appointment or email earlychildhood@isd2144.org.

Screening Details

• Earlier is better! The best age to have your child screened is at age three and a half. All results are based on your child's exact age on the day of screening.

• Appointments typically take 60-90 minutes

• A complete list of required forms is available below. Completing paperwork ahead of time will help expedite your appointment. Forms are available prior to your visit

• Children enrolled in Head Start will be screened there and records are forwarded to their school district

• Results of each portion are discussed with the parent or guardian

• If your child has had an educational evaluation and/or is currently receiving Special Education/Early Intervention services, they do not need to be screened

• Screening does not determine kindergarten readiness. 

• *If you need an interpreter during your appointment, please contact the Early Childhood Office prior to your appointment. Phone: 651-213-2282 email: cwatts@isd2144.org

• Note: Completing the screening does NOT mean your child is registered for Kindergarten.