Spotting the Signs Early

Early childhood educators play a vital role in recognizing and responding to children’s unique learning needs. Developmental and learning screeners—when used purposefully and interpreted effectively—help teachers, specialists, and program leaders understand where children are in their growth and identify when additional support may be needed.

In this session, Dr. Nicol Russell, Chief Academic officer at Teaching Strategies, will unpack the purpose and power of developmental and learning screeners in early childhood education. Participants will explore how high-quality screening practices, particularly when grounded in family partnership, can help educators recognize children’s individual strengths and needs and take timely, compassionate action. The session will highlight how screeners fit within a broader system of formative assessment and how results can guide responsive teaching, family engagement, and early intervention efforts.

Participants will

• examine the role of developmental and learning screeners within a comprehensive, strengths-based approach to assessment;
• learn how to interpret screener results to guide responsive caregiving and individualized instruction;
• explore how screening can inform early identification of potential learning differences, such as dyslexia, and be used to engage families as partners in decision-making; and
• discover practical ways to integrate screening into daily practice, intake processes, and family communication across infant, toddler, and preschool settings.