Competency Goal 8
Competency Goal 8: Understanding and application of the principles of screening and assessment.
I demonstrate competence in the understanding and application of the principles of screening and assessment because I utilize assessment instruments, systematic observations, developmental profiles, and input from other professionals (in the form of IEP/IFSP) and the child’s parents to individualize the curriculum and environment for each of the children in my care.
As an Early Head Start teacher, I utilize two developmental screening tools, the Brigance Screens and the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, to determine if there are any potential developmental delays present in the children participating in my program. I allow the child to become comfortable in the program before administering these tools, typically using them when the child has been enrolled at least a month. In order to gain maximal benefit and assist in the individualization of my program, I make sure that these tools are administered and scored within the first 45 days of attendance. If a child scores low on the first screening, I notify the parents and work with the child to see if I can strengthen skills in the area(s) where there is a deficit. I then conduct the screening again about 60 days later. If there is skill a concern at this point, I hold a conference with the child’s parents and make a pre-referral to the Special Needs/Mental Health Coordinator for Head Start/Early Head Start.
Once the pre-referral is made, a multi-disciplinary team of professionals from Head Start/Early Head Start meet with the parents and teacher to determine if a referral will be made. The parents are made aware that the service is free, will not result in the child being labeled, and that early intervention programs can prevent later deficits. If the parent(s) agree that their child needs to be assessed, it is recommended that the parent(s) contact the appropriate agency, which is Early Steps for children
I demonstrate competence in the understanding and application of the principles of screening and assessment because I utilize assessment instruments, systematic observations, developmental profiles, and input from other professionals (in the form of IEP/IFSP) and the child’s parents to individualize the curriculum and environment for each of the children in my care.
As an Early Head Start teacher, I utilize two developmental screening tools, the Brigance Screens and the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, to determine if there are any potential developmental delays present in the children participating in my program. I allow the child to become comfortable in the program before administering these tools, typically using them when the child has been enrolled at least a month. In order to gain maximal benefit and assist in the individualization of my program, I make sure that these tools are administered and scored within the first 45 days of attendance. If a child scores low on the first screening, I notify the parents and work with the child to see if I can strengthen skills in the area(s) where there is a deficit. I then conduct the screening again about 60 days later. If there is skill a concern at this point, I hold a conference with the child’s parents and make a pre-referral to the Special Needs/Mental Health Coordinator for Head Start/Early Head Start.
Once the pre-referral is made, a multi-disciplinary team of professionals from Head Start/Early Head Start meet with the parents and teacher to determine if a referral will be made. The parents are made aware that the service is free, will not result in the child being labeled, and that early intervention programs can prevent later deficits. If the parent(s) agree that their child needs to be assessed, it is recommended that the parent(s) contact the appropriate agency, which is Early Steps for children