# Child Find — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/child-find

**In short:** The legal requirement for schools to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities who may need special education services.
**Child Find** is a component of IDEA requiring school districts to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities residing in their jurisdiction who may need special education services. This includes children in private schools, homeschools, and those not yet enrolled in school.

## Child Find Requirements

Districts must conduct awareness activities, accept referrals from any source, evaluate children suspected of having disabilities, and serve eligible children. Child Find applies to children from birth through age 21, including those transitioning from early intervention.

## Practical Implementation

Child Find activities include developmental screenings, public awareness campaigns, referral systems, and outreach to private schools and early childhood programs. Parents who suspect their child has a disability can request an evaluation at any time.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What is Child Find?**

Child Find is the legal requirement for schools to identify and evaluate all children who may have disabilities and need special education services.
**Q: Can parents request a Child Find evaluation?**

Yes. Parents can request an evaluation at any time if they suspect their child has a disability affecting learning. Submit requests in writing.

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Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/child-find when citing this definition.