Child Find is a continuous process of public awareness activities, screening and evaluation designed to locate, identify, and refer as early as possible all young children with disabilities and their families who are in need of an Early Intervention Program (Part C) or Early Childhood Special Education (Part B) services of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Model Child Find and Referral Notices for LEA Use
Informed Referral Network
School districts are required to locate, identify and evaluate children with disabilities within their attendance area. To assist in this child find process, districts have developed "Informed Referral Networks." An Informed Referral Network is comprised of community partners working together to serve young children and their families. Relationships with community partners have proven to be the most effective practice in identifying children with disabilities. These partnerships provide an opportunity to learn more about screening young children and providing information about community resources. This community network refers children who may have a disability and a need for special education.
Training and Technical Assistance
Child Find Frequently Asked Questions for Children 3-5 Years of Age - June 2018
A Comparison of Early Childhood Screening and Evaluation
Collaborating Partners website
The Wisconsin Early Childhood Collaborating Partners (WECCP) is a network of state, regional, and community, public and private, state departments, agencies, associations, and individuals working together to positively impact the lives of young children and their families encompassing the areas of early care and education, health, mental health, parent education and family support.