Child Find

What is "Child Find"?

Child Find is a legal requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to identify, locate, and assess children and young adults, from birth through age 21 who are suspected of having a disability, to provide appropriate special education services.

Who qualifies for Child Find?

Child Find applies to all children who reside within our geographic boundaries, including:

Children enrolled in public, private, or home schools
Children who are unhoused or wards of the state
Children who are advancing from grade to grade but are suspected of having a disability

Why is it important?

Child Find is essential in identifying students with disabilities early so they can receive the support and special education services they need. Timely identification allows for early interventions, thus improving a child’s development, learning, and overall future opportunities. Without Child Find, many children could be overlooked and miss the essential support they need to succeed.

What is Special Education?

Special Education is specially designed instruction, at no cost to parents, to meet the unique learning needs of students with disabilities ages 3 to 22. Special education services may be provided in a variety of education settings, but are required by IDEA to be delivered in the least restrictive environment.

If you suspect that your child or a child in your care may have a disability or special need(s) that may be affecting their academic, behavioral or developmental progress, there are state and local resources in place for assistance and guidance. It is important to note that children develop at different rates and in different ways. The following resources are to assist families in determining where to access supports and services.

When can a child be referred to special education?

A child should be referred when:

A health or a medical disorder interferes with development and/or learning
A child seems to have difficulty seeing or hearing
A child appears to have social, emotional or behavioral difficulties that affect his/her ability to learn or interact with others
A child has a diagnosed progressive or degenerative condition that will eventually impair or impede the child’s ability to learn
A child seems to have difficulty understanding directions like others that are his/her age
The child’s speech is not understood by family or friends

Concerns need not be limited to those listed above. Any condition which may affect a child’s ability to learn can be a basis for referral.

California Education Code 56303 states: “A pupil shall be referred for special educational instruction and services only after the resources of the regular education program have been considered and, where appropriate, utilized.”

How can a child be referred?

Referrals are typically made to the local school district, and can be made by a parent or by any person concerned about a child. Parent consent is obtained prior to any further action. Information is confidential and the privacy of children and parents is protected.

If you suspect that your child or a child in your care may have a disability or special need(s) that may be affecting their academic, behavioral or developmental progress, state and local resources are available for support and guidance.

Resources & Links

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Child Find 3-Fold Brochure

Folleto plegable de 3 pliegues para encontrar niños

Tờ rơi gấp 3 của Child Find

Reasons for Concern (source: CDE)

Educational Services

Special Education Local Planning Area (SELPA)

SCCOE Home

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