Why

Early identification of a developmental lead help to prevent learning and behavioral problems. Only by early identification and adapted education the child will develop. Early recognition of development needs contributes to develop a better self-image and more self-confidence.

Moreover, early signaling is important to prevent or reduce underachievement. For further reading about the needed approach we ‘d like to refer to the pages in this toolkit “holistic approach to challenging young children “

How

a. the intake

Strategies for an appropriate intake of children with a development lead in Kindergartens.

The first intake meeting with parents:  It is strongly recommended to schedule this introductory meeting t before the child gets used to he Kindergarten (or school).

With the aid of a good intake questionnaire and by listening carefully to parents, a lot of information can already be obtained in order to recognize if the child has a possible development lead.

Here we present a questionnaire for parents. Intake developed for children of 4 years of age entering a primary school in the Netherlands. It could be inspiration matter for other Kindergartens.

b. in the Kindergarten

By using identification/signaling procedures attention can be paid to cognitive and personality characteristics of a developmental advantage and characteristics of underachievement.

Heidi van der Hoorn (Fine Talent) presented this observation list at the Focus on Talent conference.