What Is Child Find?
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 Early Intervention Program (Part C) or Preschool Special Education (Part B) services of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
IDEA States: All children with disabilities residing in the State, including children with disabilities who are homeless children or are wards of the State, and children with disabilities attending private schools, regardless of the severity of their disability, and who are in need of special education and related services, are identified, located, and evaluated.
IDEA requires all states to have a “comprehensive Child Find system” to assure that all children who are in need of early intervention or special education services are located, identified, and referred.
All children deserve a chance to reach their full potential. Project Child Find, a service to assist families of children who may have special needs, is here in Oklahoma to see that every child has that chance. The Oklahoma Parents Center assists with Project Child Find, please call us toll free at 1-877-553-4332. If there appears to be a delay in any area of your child’s development, you may seek assistance from us. The OPC staff is happy to guide you to the appropriate people/services for extra assistance as well.
Where to call for a free evaluation from the state depends on your child’s age:
Under Three (3) Years Old
Contact SoonerStart Early Intervention Services at 405-521-3351 or locate your local SoonerStart office by clicking here!
Three (3) Years Old and Older
Contact your local public school system. Click here for a list of School Districts in Oklahoma!
* Even if your child is not yet old enough for kindergarten or enrolled in a public school, call your local elementary school and ask to speak with someone who can help you have your child evaluated.
If you’re not sure who to contact, call the Oklahoma Parents Center toll-free at 877-553-4332 and we can help you!