It was difficult for me not to take the news personally when I learned from a childcare provider that my then two-year-old son, Michael, had trouble selecting shapes and colors compared to other children his age.
I thought “he is fine,” but I had to be honest with myself. I noticed other children in the daycare who were already talking, while Michael’s still was not producing clear words.

Thanks to the early childhood evaluation supported by United Way, Michael received three free screenings within six months and we learned he was having difficulty completing a few of the exercises compared with peers, and he had no tone in one of his ears. We were told not to be alarmed, but that he should be seen by his pediatrician. After a trip to the pediatrician for an ear draining, at his third evaluation he passed the hearing test with flying colors. However, the specialist suggested that he be evaluated by the district office.

In July of this year, Michael was evaluated at the district office. There they told us that he was a very bright, smart, and alert boy. Michael will be ready to start preschool next year and is now on par for his age, without any additional aid.

Anticipating screening results was very scary, but along the way I picked up these lessons:

1. Consult a pediatrician. Toddler development changes every 3-6 months. Be sure to get a checkup or screening every 6 months.
   
2. Trust and collaborate with professionals. Your pediatrician and childcare providers are there to make sure your child is on the right track.
   
3. Reach Out. Check with your local school or library about services they offer, such as access to free online tools, like United Way’s Ages & Stages Questionnaire, which can be done from the comfort of your own home (available in English and Spanish).
   

Take it from me; screenings are a fun, safe and interactive activity for your child that can truly change their academic future. If it wasn't for United Way, Michael's may not be on par with his classmates.

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Angel Borrego is an administrative assistant in United Way’s finance department. She lives in the southwest Valley with her family and is the proud mom of Michael Xavier, 3, and Sienna Angel, 23 months.