(Photo | Courtesy of Healthy Beginnings)
WHAT IS HEALTHY BEGINNINGS?
Healthy Beginnings is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides free wellness and developmental screenings for children, ages 0-5. It was created in 1994 by early childhood experts who saw the need to establish a way for families to identify concerns before their children entered school. Over the past 27 years the organization has served over 11,000 children throughout Central Oregon and is recognized statewide and nationally for the innovative service provided to young children and their parents.
WHO DO WE SERVE?
Healthy Beginnings provides its screening, referral and follow-up services to every child between the ages of 0-5 years, residing in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties. Our services are always FREE to ALL CHILDREN. There are no income requirements, and no need for insurance or a referral. We are free for everyone — every time.
WHAT SERVICE DO WE PROVIDE?
Healthy Beginnings provides the most comprehensive screening assessment program and referral service for the health and development of every child under six years old in Deschutes County. Covering 12 key areas of health and development, the free screenings determine whether a child is developing appropriately for their age, identifying problems that can easily be overlooked at regular check-ups.
WHY ARE THESE SCREENINGS IMPORTANT?
The early years are the best opportunity for a child’s brain to develop the connections they need to become healthy, capable, successful adults. In fact, 90 percent of brain growth happens before kindergarten. A child’s development should be assessed regularly and completely — several times before entering kindergarten.
The Healthy Beginnings screening program helps detect potential issues early, when intervention and treatment are most likely to be successful. Parents are provided with assessment results, appropriate professional referrals and follow-up consultation and guidance.
HOW CAN I GET MY CHILD SCREENED?
Screenings are available in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Madras, Prineville LaPine and Sunriver. Call the Healthy Beginnings office at 541-383-6357 today to schedule a time for your child’s screening.
