Parents often sense when their child's development might be delayed, and sometimes it is difficult to know where to go for help. Where can you turn when you become concerned that your child isn't crawling yet or doesn't seem to be able to communicate?

Families can find answers to these questions and more through Lifesteps' Child Check program, a free developmental screening for children from birth to 5 years old.

This screening assesses a child's development in areas such as listening, playing, talking, seeing, hearing, moving, thinking, and social skills. Screening for autism is also available for toddlers 18 months to 3 years of age by request or referral.

Small signs that are easily overlooked can lead to long-term concerns. If not addressed, these concerns could interfere with a child's normal growth and development.

Early identification of all potential developmental delays followed by appropriate early intervention is important to providing the best opportunities for a child's future success. The beginning years of a child's life are critical to early learning, and their social and emotional development.

Lifesteps' Child Check program has touched the lives of more than 62,000 children in its 25- year history. Last year alone, the Child Check staff screened more than 4,900 children, of which 1,100 were referred for further evaluation or follow-up services.

Child Check screening is available at various sites in Butler, Armstrong, Beaver, Indiana and Lawrence counties. For information or to schedule a free screening, call Lifesteps at 1-800-225-2010.

This article was submitted by Lifesteps.