Have you had your baby screened?

I recently read a fascinating article from an online newletter that once again confirmed the importance of early screening of babies. The article discussed results of the U.K.'s Millenium Cohort study of 15,000 children born between 2000-2001. The study showed that delays in skills like crawling, a gross motor skill, and holding objects in their fingers, at nine months of age was a good indicator of possible cognitive development delays at age five!

Early screening for children under the age of three is available for Matteson area residents for free. Screening in useful for a wide range of reasons, not just developmental delays. It is another tool available to parents to help keep babies healthy beyond regular visits to the doctor.

If you live in the areas served by Matteson School District #162, you should contact the SPEED Center at 1-708-481-6010 and ask for the Family Enrichment Program. Their knowledgable staff have developed a wonderful and enjoyable way for you and your baby to play and learn together.

If you live in areas served by Matteson School District #159, contact the District's Main Office at 1-708-720-1300, and request information about their Birth to Three program.

Don't forget to bring your baby to our Lapsit program! Lapsit is held each Tuesday at 9:30 & 10:30am. It features songs, fingerplays, stories and bubbles. It is a perfect first playgroup opportunity for your little one. No registration is required.