Developmental Screenings

Our goal is to support NKC Schools families by offering free developmental screenings for all children from 3 months old until they start kindergarten.

What is a Developmental Screening?

A developmental screening is a simple and important way to learn more about how your child is growing and learning and address any concerns you may have. During the screening, you’ll gain insight into your child’s communication, motor, thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills—celebrating what they’re doing well and discovering areas where they might need a little extra support.

Completion of a developmental screening is required for preschool enrollment in our district. It does not guarantee preschool placement.

Select the button that best matches your child’s age/ needs.

My child’s birthdate is between 08-01-21 and 07-31-22

Children born between August 1, 2021, and July 31, 2022, may qualify for one of our FREE preschool programs. A developmental screening is required as part of the qualification process.

Screenings will begin in January and take place most Fridays through Mid-May. Screening appointments are between 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM. Click the button below to select a date/time for your screening. Please schedule one appointment for every child you'd like to have screened.

What to Expect

Screenings are held at the Early Education Center.
Appointments last 75-90 minutes.
Your child must be present for the screening, and a parent/guardian must be on-site for the entirety of the screening.
Your child will participate in play-based screening with one of our developmental screeners, while parents complete paperwork in an adjoining space.
This process is designed to make your child feel safe and at ease.
Completion of a screening does not guarantee placement in a preschool classroom.

Sign-up for a Screening

I have concerns about my child's development and my child is between 3 & 5 years of age

Please contact Abbey Thornton, Early Childhood Special Education Coordinator, at 816-321-6285, to discuss your concerns and/or schedule a screening.

This screening helps us understand your concerns about your child’s development and connect you with helpful resources, including information about possible special education supports.

What to Expect

Screenings are held at the Early Education Center.
Appointments last approximately 90 minutes, but may be tailored to meet your child's needs.
Your child must be present for the screening.
Your child will participate in a play-based screening with one of our developmental screeners, while parent(s) complete paperwork in an adjoining space.
This process is designed to make your child feel safe and at ease.
Completion of a screening does not guarantee placement in a preschool classroom and/or special education services.

My child’s birthdate is after 07-31-22 and I want to know more about their development

Infants, toddlers, 2 and 3-year-olds not yet eligible for preschool may sign up for a developmental screening. This screening offers valuable insights into your child's progress in meeting age-appropriate milestones. Families may be connected with resources that support you and your child. (For families not currently enrolled in Parents as Teachers)

What to Expect

Screenings take place at the Early Education Center.
A staff member will contact you to schedule a convenient time.
Your child must be present for the screening.
Appointments last approximately 60 minutes.
The session is friendly and play-based, designed to make your child feel comfortable.

PAT Screening Interest Form

Need Assistance?

For questions or assistance with scheduling, contact us at 816-321-5250.
Interpreters are available upon request to assist parents/guardians with scheduling a screening and during their screening appointment.

Community Preschools

A variety of preschool programs are also available within our community, which may meet your family’s needs. The list provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a referral. The NKC Early Education Center does not endorse or recommend any organization or agency included in this list.

Community Preschools