Child Find for Special Education or Early On Services
Worried About Your Child's Development? We Can Help.
Every child deserves the support they need to thrive. If you're concerned about your child's development — whether they are an infant, toddler, or school-age child — you have the right to request a free evaluation. Our team is here to listen, guide, and connect you with the right resources.
What Is Child Find?
Child Find is a federal mandate under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that requires public school districts and intermediate school districts to actively identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities who may need special education or related services.
This obligation applies to children from birth through age 21, regardless of whether they are enrolled in public school, attending private school, or are homeschooled.
Michigan Dept. of Education Child Find InformationChild Find applies to children:
- From birth through age 21
- Enrolled in public school
- Attending private or parochial school
- Being homeschooled
- Regardless of whether a disability has been diagnosed
Services by Age
Early On Services
Michigan's Early On program provides early intervention services to infants and toddlers (birth through age 2) who have a developmental delay or an established condition that may result in a delay.
Services are delivered in natural environments — such as the home — and are designed to support both the child and the family.
Learn about Early On servicesSpecial Education Services
For children age 3 through 21, special education services are provided through local school districts in partnership with MARESA. Evaluations determine eligibility and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed for eligible students.
Services may include specialized instruction, related services (speech therapy, OT, PT), and other supports to help your child succeed in school.
How to Request an Evaluation
If you suspect your child may have a disability or developmental delay, you have the right to request a free evaluation at any time. Here's how to get started:
Contact MARESA
Call (906) 226-5160 or visit us at 321 East Ohio Street, Marquette, MI 49855. Our team will listen and help you understand your options.
Learn About Your Rights
MARESA staff will explain your rights as a parent and walk you through what to expect during the evaluation process.
Connect With the Evaluation Team
We will connect you with the appropriate evaluation team in your local school district, who will conduct a free, comprehensive evaluation.
Receive Results & Next Steps
Evaluation results will be shared with you and, if eligible, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) will be developed.
Contact the MARESA Special Education Department
MARESA staff can help guide you through the referral process, explain your rights as a parent, and connect you with the appropriate evaluation team in your local district.
Have questions about Child Find or Early On?
Contact our Special Education team for support.