One of the great things about Playgroup is access to developmental screening tools such as the Ages & Stages Questionnaire. Most Playgroup leaders and all Family Support Navigators are trained to use this tool. It can be used as a unique opportunity to look at a child’s development and the specific skills a child is building and learning to master as well as revealing developmental areas to focus on.
Introducing screening to parents and caregivers comes with a wide variety of responses and enthusiasm. Many parents/caregivers worry that something might be “wrong” with their child. It can be helpful to explain that the ASQ is a screening tool and NOT an assessment for diagnosis. It’s simply a tool that looks at development and gauges if children are developing as typically expected. It’s important to note that the window for typical development is pretty wide, especially when you consider that every child is on their own path and motivated to build and master different areas of development at different times.
There are many ways to ease the conversation around screening. Holding ASQ “Pop-Up” events at playgroup is one of the easiest ways to normalize the tool. Many playgroups have found that holding one of these events where the tool is shared with everyone at the same time helps to ease families from feeling pressure on them specifically.
Sharing the corresponding activity sheets can be another way to deepen the interest of families. Most parents or caregivers can use an “easy-button” activity to do at some point during their day! It’s a great way to switch things up and share developmentally appropriate activities with others who may care for the child.
If you are interested in learning more, hosting your own pop-up, or have someone in mind you’d like to share the tool with, reach out to your local Family Support Navigator or to First 5 Humboldt directly.