Child Find Information

The intent of Child Find under both federal and state requirements is to ensure that all children ages birth-21 years with delays or disabilities are identified, located and evaluated in order to receive needed early intervention supports or special education services. Public agencies responsible for providing these supports and services are obligated to actively search to "find" children who may be eligible and conduct an eligibility determination process that includes screening and evaluation according to state established criteria.  

Early intervention supports and services assist families of eligible children aged birth to three to help their child develop to his or her full potential and, to the maximum extent possible, participate in the daily activities and routines of their families and communities with greater independence and competence.

Special Education for preschool and school aged children provides specialized instruction and supports and/or related services to assist children in reaching their developmental milestones and in participating in developmentally appropriate activities, including accessing the general curriculum and in benefiting from their educational environment.

For more information on this subject, please call the ADE/Child Find Unit at (928) 637-1871, DES/AzEIP Office at (602) 635-9799 or (800) 237-3007 or the Children's Information Center at (800) 232-1676. For additional support for parents of children with disabilities, you can also contact Raising Special Kids at (602) 242-4366 or (800) 237-3007.