CARE to Host Free Screenings for Babies and Toddlers on April 13. McKean County Early Intervention will provide milestone checks and resources for families with children from birth to three at CARE for Children. CARE for Children and McKean County Early Intervention will host free developmental screenings for children from birth to age three on Monday, April 13, from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Ashley Booth Griffin CARE for Children Center, located at 723 East Main Street in Bradford. Attendees should use the Russell Boulevard parking lot and entrance.

The event is being held in recognition of the Week of the Young Child, an annual initiative that highlights the importance of early learning and development. By offering free screenings, CARE for Children and the Early Intervention program aim to support families in understanding their child’s development during these critical early years.

Screenings will include a developmental milestone assessment, hearing and vision checks, and information for families on social-emotional development, infant mental health, and child safety topics such as childproofing, water safety, and home safety. Each child who participates will receive an age-appropriate developmental toy. Members of CARE for Children’s therapy staff, Early Intervention Service Coordination, and local Early Intervention providers will be available to conduct screenings and speak with families.

Tabatha Johnson, Service Coordinator Supervisor for McKean County Birth to Three Early Intervention, emphasized the importance of early identification. “Identifying developmental concerns early gives children the best opportunity to build critical skills during a key period of growth. When supports are put in place early, it can have a lasting impact on a child’s overall development and success.”

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, developmental screening is an essential part of early childhood care, as some children with delays may not be identified through observation alone. Routine screenings help ensure children receive support as early as possible.

Ashley Carlson, MOT, OTR/L, CARE Pediatric Therapy Services Director, noted that screenings are valuable for all children—not just those with obvious concerns. “Even when a child appears to be developing typically, a screening provides a helpful snapshot of their progress at a specific point in time. It gives families a chance to ask questions, better understand developmental milestones, and learn simple ways to support their child’s continued growth.”

“Families can be pro-active by participating in screenings,” Carlson added. “They complement the monitoring that happens at pediatric visits and offer an additional layer of support and reassurance.”

“Early Intervention services are designed to support the foundational skills children develop in the first three years of life,” Johnson added. “When delays are present, targeted services can help strengthen communication, movement, learning, and social interaction. These services are provided at no cost to families, making support accessible when it matters most.”

Guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that some children may benefit from additional screening, particularly those born prematurely, with low birthweight, or with certain medical or environmental risk factors. Ongoing developmental monitoring is important for all children, including those with existing diagnoses or health concerns.

“For many families, screenings offer peace of mind,” Johnson shared. “And when a concern is identified, families can be connected right away to a network of specialists, including physical, occupational, and speech therapists, as well as early childhood educators and support professionals.”

To register your baby or toddler for a free developmental screening—including hearing and vision checks and a free developmental toy—call CARE for Children at 814-362-4621. Walk-ins are also welcome on the day of the event. Attendees should use the Russell Boulevard parking lot and entrance.

If you are unable to attend, the McKean County Infant/Toddler Early Intervention program can provide screenings at home; call 814-975-1221 for more information. Families in other counties can contact the nationwide CONNECT Help Line at 1-800-692-7288 to be connected with their local Early Intervention office.

The Early Intervention Screening Day at CARE for Children is sponsored by a grant from the ARG-Our Legacy Fund held at the McKean County Community Foundation.