Metro United Way Helps Families Track Child Development with Free Screening Tool

At the Prichard Committee, we believe families are essential partners in their children’s development—and across the commonwealth, we’re seeing innovative programs that reflect that belief in action. Today, we are spotlighting the Ages & Stages Developmental Screening Hub by Metro United Way—a free tool that gives parents and caregivers the knowledge they need to support their child’s growth and development.  

So, what exactly is developmental screening and why is it so important? In the early years of a child’s life, milestones like smiling, waving, walking, and talking can offer clues as to how they are developing. Developmental screenings help families see if their child is on track, recognize their strengths, as well as identify areas that may require additional support. When delays are identified and addressed early, the chances of improving a child’s developmental outcomes increase significantly. Thus, early screening is one of the most important tools we have.  

Metro United Way’s Ages & Stages Hub brings this resource in a free and accessible way to families in Jefferson, Bullitt, Oldham, and Shelby counties in Kentucky, and Clark, Floyd, and Harrison counties in Indiana. The program uses the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), which allows families to assess their child’s development in areas like communication, movement, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.  

Here’s how it works: Families sign up and receive a paper copy or online link to the ASQ. From there, they play with their child, answer some easy questions, and send in their responses. In return, they get personalized results along with suggested activities to encourage healthy development. If there are any concerns, a trained coordinator follows up and connects the family with helpful local services and resources that can provide needed intervention. Parents are invited to complete updated questionnaires every few months until their child is 5 ½ years old, keeping them informed and involved at every step of their child’s early development journey. Finally, families who participate in the program receive a free children’s book, reinforcing the importance of early literacy alongside developmental monitoring.

This kind of proactive support is more important than ever. As Ashley Brandt, Director of Thriving Kids at Metro United Way, explains, “Nationally, 15% of children are estimated to be developmentally delayed—and of that group, only 13% are receiving support services.” She also notes that children of color are five times less likely to be connected with the services they need. Too often, these children don’t receive any intervention until they reach elementary school. Metro United Way’s Ages & Stages Hub is working to change that by providing accessible, early developmental screenings—giving children the support they need well before they enter their first classroom.  

Brandt also emphasizes that this program’s success is built on strong community partnerships. From grassroots organizations like the Play Cousins Collective to healthcare providers and early education programs, Metro United Way works closely with trusted local partners to ensure families are not only enrolled, but also meaningfully supported. Such partnerships can also assist in identifying service gaps and strengthening support along the continuum of early childhood development.  

One parent who’s used the ASQ with all three of her children shared how meaningful it’s been for her family: 

“As a new mother, I didn’t know exactly what milestones should be met at certain ages. The Ages & Stages Questionnaire was a lifesaver. It helped me understand my child’s strengths and areas that needed support. Now, with three children, I still use it to track their growth. I’m so grateful for the resources and guidance it has provided us.” 

The Prichard Committee is proud to support such efforts; programs that effectively empower families in the communities we work to serve every day. Metro United Way’s Ages & Stages Developmental Screening Hub is a powerful example of how we can put the right tools in parents’ hands and build stronger communities in the process.  

If you live in the Metro United Way service area and have a child under five, we encourage you to explore this free resource. To learn more or sign up, visit the Ages & States Developmental Screening Hub or contact ASQ Manager Kimberly Broecker at kimberly.broecker@metrounitedway.org.  

If you live outside the service area and would like to learn more about developmental screenings or how to make them more accessible in your community, visit our Early Childhood Toolkit or contact ellen@prichardcommittee.org.   

Together, we can ensure every child gets the strong start they deserve.