Candidate families are screened using a universal screening tool that evaluates family stress indicators. Families who screen positive for risk factors receive an assessment using a standardized assessment tool.
Developmental screenings, using the Ages & Stages Questionnaires, begin at 4 months of age and are provided every two months. Developmental social-emotional screenings are completed on each child beginning at 6 months of age and continue every six months. Mothers also receive a perinatal depression screening at three intervals (prenatally, 2-8 weeks postnatal, and 8-12 months after birth). Family support workers also screen families for domestic violence.