Early childhood matters to Sisters

It's that time again: The time of the year when Healthy Beginnings brings their crew of volunteers to Sisters to provide free screenings for any child from birth through 5 years old, not yet enrolled in kindergarten.

The screening is set for November 8 at the Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) office at the west end of the Sisters High School parking lot.

Call 541-383-6357 to make an appointment.

What a grand opportunity for parents to learn how their child is doing in all their areas of growth. There are 12 different areas of screening, which consist of: behavior, carseat safety, concepts, dental, general information, health, hearing, infant development, motor skills, nutrition, speech and vision.

All of the screenings are provided by professionals, who volunteer their time and expertise. Anyone interested in assisting with screenings can get more information by calling 541-383-6357.

It is known that early identification and treatment can assist a child in reaching their highest potential. When screenings are completed, referrals are made, if needed, to medical and developmental specialists.

In the 2012-2013 screening year, 539 children received a free health and developmental screenings at events in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties. Within this number, 74 children were referred for a full evaluation to Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education, 146 children for eye examinations and 95 for other medical concerns.

The Sisters Early Childhood Resource Team creates collaboration and coordination between community agencies, believing it maximizes community resources.

Through their website, http://www.sistersearly

childhoodresource.com, you can learn that Sisters Christian Academy, TendUR Blessings Child Care, and Together For Children still have openings for this fall. And that Circle of Friends is looking for volunteer mentors. Other agencies involved in the coalition are Little Frog Learning Center, SPRD and the SPRD Pre-School, Sisters Elementary School and the Pre-K Learning Lab.

Articles on development are easily accessible.

One of the events highlighted this month is the Deschutes Public Libraries' sponsorship of Jim Gill, a children's musician and author, at the Tower Theatre on October 26, for a free concert.

There will also be a free workshop at the Bend Downtown Library for parents. Visit http://www.deschuteslibrary.org/events to learn about times and how to acquire tickets for the concert. No tickets are needed for the workshop.