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Child Find

Child Find in California: A Parent’s Guide

Child Find is a program in California designed to identify individuals who may have disabilities and need special education services. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Purpose: To locate and evaluate children with developmental delays or disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support.

2. Who It Affects: This program includes all children, whether they are in school, preschool, or home-schooled.

3. How It Works:

  • Identification: Schools and community organizations work together to find children who might benefit from special education.
  • Evaluation: Children identified will undergo assessments to determine their needs.
  • Services: If a disability is identified, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be created to provide tailored support.

4. Getting Started: If you suspect your child may need help, contact the number below to begin the referral process.

5. Your Role: Be proactive! If you have concerns about your child’s development, reach out for assistance.

If you have concern about a child that is 3-5 years old, and believe your child might need to be assessed, please contact the Mitchell Child Development Center at (714) 285-4600 to find out about referral procedures and the Child Find process.

SAUSD Child Find Process

 

Child Find Days are offered for students enrolled in private schools and for preschool-aged children. If your child is school-aged (TK and up), please contact your child's school of residence. You may also contact the Special Education/SELPA Division at (714) 558-5551. For more information, please visit the SAUSD Child Find website.

 

The process for preschool-aged children is as follows:

 

  • Parent or guardian contacts Mitchell Child Development Center at (714) 285-4600 for an appointment to attend a Child Find screening.
  • Parents are given an opportunity to bring their child to a Child Find day for developmental screening.
  • Child Find Day results are shared with Parents at the end of the screening, with three possible outcomes:
    • Child's skills are found to be within normal limits. Parents referred to community resources and/or preschools.
    • Child is referred to a pre-referral speech program. Contacts and appointments are finalized prior to Parents leaving the Child Find Day.
    • Child demonstrates skills that present a possible area of concern and is referred to the Mitchell CDC Preschool Assessment Team.