FDLRS Child Find
What it is. Free developmental screening (speech, language, motor, thinking, social, hearing, vision) for young children not yet in public school. If the screening shows a concern, Child Find refers your child to the school district for a full evaluation and possible preschool special-education services. Direct service, free.
Who it's for. Children from about 2 years 10 months (34 months) to 5 who are not enrolled in public school; some centers also screen older children not in public school — ask. (Under 34 months: Early Steps. Already in public school: ask the school. Head Start children screen through Head Start.) No diagnosis, doctor referral, or insurance needed.
First step. Submit the statewide request form (opens in a new tab) — it routes to your local center — or contact the center directly:
| County | Center | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | FDLRS Action, Orlando | 407-317-3660, or OCPS Preschool Diagnostic Intervention Services 407-317-3503 |
| Volusia | FDLRS East, Daytona Beach | Volusia referral form (opens in a new tab) · 386-258-4670 ext. 52841 (or 386-734-7190 ext. 52841) |
| Alachua | FDLRS Springs, Reddick | referral form (opens in a new tab) · 352-671-6051 or 800-533-0326 |
| Duval | FDLRS Crown, Jacksonville | request form (opens in a new tab) · 904-346-4601 |
Good to know.
- Duval currently reports about 4 weeks to process a request.
- Orange County's next step (PDIS) requires a birth certificate, proof of residency, and an intake packet.
- In Volusia, both the child and a legal guardian attend (another caregiver only with written parental consent); Orange requires the legal guardian to bring the child. Ask your center.
Cost. Free.
Official source. fdlrs.org/child-find (opens in a new tab) · Find a center (opens in a new tab)
Not yet confirmed: the correct phone extension for Orange County's Child Find specialist; wait times in Orange, Volusia, and Alachua.