UPDATE: More than 75 children screened!
ORIGINAL POST: This year, on the day before Mother’s Day, a special event called “Books, Balls & Blocks” will offer free screenings, educational prizes and a multi-station play area where children can show off their skills.
“BB&B” will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at Viera Regional Community Center, in conjunction with the 22nd Annual World’s Greatest Baby Shower, where expectant parents also can learn and earn baby gifts.
As the screening event name says, there’ll be books, balls, blocks and other toys in the restricted play area so children stay busy and safe while parents complete online Ages & Stages Questionnaires.
Parents also may sign up to do online screenings at their convenience and still earn prizes.
The Help Me Grow Brevard coalition of nonprofit and government agencies led by 2-1-1 Brevard has been working for almost two years to increase the number of children – primarily infants to 5-year-olds – who get routine developmental screenings.This is part of Help Me Grow Florida, a state-funded program designed to promote healthy development for every child.
After the event, the screening results will be scored and a Help Me Grow Brevard coordinator will contact the families. The parents’ answers will show a child’s strengths as well as highlight any areas in which the child may need more practice.
The Help Me Grow coordinator will continue to work with families who need support and check in later with families who don’t.
Estimates say that 1 out of 7 children experiences developmental delays, learning disorders or behavioral and social-emotional problems. Early detection leads to early intervention and better results.
The Help Me Grow Brevard partnership includes 2-1-1 Brevard, Early Learning Coalition of Brevard, Healthy Start Coalition, Space Coast Early Steps, Brevard Health Alliance, Florida Department of Health in Brevard, Brevard Public Schools, Space Coast Health Foundation, Brevard Homeless Coalition and United Way of Brevard.
Learn more at www.facebook.com/helpmegrowbrevard.
Help Me Grow Florida is sponsored by the Children’s Forum and the Florida Department of Education Office of Early Learning.