Early Childhood Screening is required before a student starts kindergarten in Minnesota. The screening is a quick and simple check of how your child is doing at 3 to 4 years of age. It identifies, at an early stage, possible health or learning concerns, so that children can get help before starting school.  It is not a readiness test for kindergarten.

Early childhood screening helps a parent find out how their child is doing, helps connect families to early childhood programs and other community services, and is a time to ask about parenting issues and/or concerns. If your child has been screened through Head Start, they do not have to be screened again.

Frequently Asked Questions about Screening:

What happens during a screening?

• During the Early Childhood Screening, well qualified staff, licensed teachers, and school nurses will check your child's: vision, hearing, growth, immunization status, and overall development (skills in thinking, communication and language, large and small muscles, and social/emotional development.)

Should I wait until my child is ready to enter kindergarten?

• No- the earlier the better. Waiting until a child is in school or ready to enter school may be waiting too long. If your child is 3 years old and has not been checked for health and developmental status, call (218) 208-0853 or (218) 208-0852 for information on how to get your child screened.

When are the screenings held?

• Hibbing Early Childhood Screenings are held 6 times during the school year. There is no charge, however appointment times are needed.