What is “Early Childhood”?

The Kansas State Department of Education defines early childhood as the time period from birth to the end of 3^rd grade. In practice, early childhood programing generally refers only from birth through the end of kindergarten. Even more specifically, SKACD considers early childhood to generally mean preschool programming (ages 3-5) rather than the services offered prior to preschool or after starting kindergarten. Confusing, right!?

SKACD’s Early Childhood Special Education “ECSE” options are available to any eligible student in our 14 member districts. While some of our school sites offer preschool programming, other communities may start at kindergarten. In either situation, SKACD’s early childhood responsibility starts at age 2 ½. SKACD encourages all families with concerns about the development of their child to contact SKACD to schedule a screening for developmental disabilities. For children younger than 2 ½, we encourage you to contact our partners at Arrowhead West Infant-Toddler Services to schedule a developmental screening.

Multiple times during the school year, SKACD offers a formal screening clinic in order to provide this screening to a large number of families at once. We also offer individualized screening for families who prefer this option.

To schedule a screening for your child, contact the SKACD Central Office. You may also follow the QR code on the flyers below to register electronically. ECSE screening is available year round, even during the summer months.

You can also call the SKACD Early Childhood Screening Center at (620) 471-3115.