Children 1st
Purpose of the Program
The program’s aim is to identify children and screen them for risk of developmental delays. Those with significant biological, social, or emotional risks are connected to public health programs and community resources. Children without severe risks, may stay in Children 1st for monitoring. If risks arise later, they can swiftly enter an intervention program.
How is eligibility determined?
Children 1st screens at-risk children and families to provide additional support for healthy development and family success. Here’s how eligibility is determined:
At Birth Screening: Children are screened for birth disorders that are passed to baby from a parent.
Well Child Visits: Pediatricians screen children for developmental milestones. If a child isn’t meeting these or shows other risk factors, they may be referred to Children 1st.
Referrals
- Parents, family, educators, or friends concerned about a child’s growth, development, or environment can make a referral.
- The Department of Family and Children may also refer children as they see fit
How are screenings done?
Children 1st has several points of contact with families. During each point of contact, screenings are performed to ensure all of the child’s needs are identified and the child is linked to services that will best meet his/her needs, as well as, the needs of the family.
Electronic Birth Certificates: All birth certificates for children born in Georgia are downloaded and screened for risk factors. If a risk is identified, Children 1st will be notified to follow-up with the family directly.
Phone Screens: Children 1st coordinators may call families to determine the needs of the child and family over the phone. Responses during this call will help indicate the types of services, if any, that will most benefit the child and his/her family.
Why is the program important?
Through early identification, Children 1st makes it more likely that children are linked to important interventions as early as possible. This early linkage may have lasting effects on the children’s development.
*Participation is voluntary from beginning to end. Parents may withdraw at any time.
Reasons for referral
Any child in Georgia can be referred to Children 1st; however, Children 1st is especially interested in referrals for children with the following factors:
Prenatal Factors
- History of maternal alcohol or substance abuse
- Lack of prenatal care
- Illness or traumatic injury during pregnancy
- Prenatal exposure to therapeutic drugs with known potential for developmental implications
Birth factors
- Premature birth
- Extended stays in the hospital/NICU
- Congenital infections/abnormalities
- Low/very low birth weight
Infancy/Childhood factors
- Exposure to environmental lead or other toxins
- Suspected or confirmed hearing or vision impairment
- Congenital and heritable disorders
Parental/Family Factors
- Parental concern about the child’s development
- Parental developmental disabilities or mental illness
- Homelessness or parental unemployment
- Family history of child abuse or neglect
Where are services located?
Children 1st can be found in every county in Georgia. As part of the Children 1st process, children can receive a developmental screening and/or families can receive a family assessment to determine risk factors. These screenings can be administered over the phone or in your local health department. If you think you qualify for services or want to learn more, give us a call at 770-339-4260.
