CARE for Children has been conducting trainings, for Early Childhood Professionals, on milestones, developmental red flags, and the importance of developmental screenings for children birth to three in McKean County, Potter County and Warren County.  Most recently, the CARE staff presented to the YMCA Child Care programs in Bradford and Oswayo Valley.  

“CARE is a leading provider of Early Intervention services in McKean County and the surrounding region and it is our goal to promote developmental screenings as a way for parents to get a clear picture of their child’s development.  Early Intervention can assist children who are not meeting their milestones due to a delay in one or more areas of development including cognition, motor, social-emotional, self-help, or communication,” said Tina Martin, Executive Director of CARE for Children.

Pediatrician’s offices provide developmental monitoring by asking parents questions about their child’s development.  A missed milestone may signal a problem, triggering a more in-depth evaluation and possibly a referral to Early Intervention.  Screenings and more formal evaluations are an extension of that monitoring and even if a young child is meeting developmental milestones, the process gives parents greater insight into their child’s development.

In certain instances, screenings become imperative.  According to the Center for Disease Control, “If a child is at higher risk for developmental problems due to preterm birth, low birthweight, environmental risks like lead exposure, or other factors, the child’s healthcare provider may also discuss additional screenings.  If a child has an existing long-lasting health problem or a diagnosed condition, the child should have developmental monitoring and screening in all areas of development, just like those without special healthcare needs.”

“By enlisting the help of other Early Childhood Professionals in promoting Early Intervention Services, hosting screening days at their facilities, recommending screenings to parents, and identifying potential delays, we create a wider, more comprehensive safety net for babies and toddlers to reach their potential,” added Martin.  “We want parents of all socio-economic backgrounds to understand that EI services can benefit any child and there is no stigma to having a child screened or receive services. “

The McKean County trainings will also provide child safety and injury prevention information, including making referrals to the McKean County Cribs for Kids Program and the home safety program offered through the Safe Kids McKean Partnership.  CARE is the lead agency for both the partnership and the Cribs for Kids Program. 

Upon completion of the training, each program will receive a LifeVac Choking Rescue Device, which is a portable suction first aid kit for both children and adults.  Choking is the 4th leading cause of accidental death and a leading cause of death for children under the age of 14.  Statistics show that one child dies from choking every 5 days. The LifeVac is a simple device to use, to train personnel to use and will be replaced by the company if ever used.

The Life Vacs were made possible from a grant from the Women’s Giving Circle of McKean County.  The Women’s Giving Circle is a society of philanthropists who work collectively to address and support issues that are important to women.

For more information on EI services or schedule a training at your organization, please contact CARE for Children at 814-362-4621.  

To schedule a screening or make an Early Intervention referral please contact the McKean County Infant/Toddler Early Intervention office at 814-975-1221.  Information for other counties can be found by calling the CONNECT Help Line at 1-800-692-7288.  This is a nationwide hotline that can connect parents to their county Early Intervention office.

CARE for Children is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children of all abilities.

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