Countryside Public Health Department

Follow Along Program

Program that helps to make sure children are learning and growing appropriately for their age

Description

The Follow Along Program (FAP) helps parents and caregivers measure how their children are developing and decide if educational and other community programs may be needed to help them keep pace with other kids their age.

It helps parents:

  • Learn and ask questions about child health and development
  • Figure out "what to teach" and "at what age" to teach it
  • Get information about other helpful services

How it works:

  • Parents get a call or visit from an early childhood professional (usually a nurse) from a local public health department to learn about their child.
  • Questionnaires are sent to help parents measure how their child is developing at specific ages.
    • Results are shared with the parent, and if there are concerns, the professional contacts the parent about what they can do.

When a child reaches 36 months old, parents then receive information about how to register for Early Childhood Screening to continue to support their child's readiness for kindergarten.

Features

  • Area Served by County
    • Lac qui Parle County
  • Specialization
    • Children and/or youth with disabilities
    • Disabilities

Eligibility

Parents/caregivers with children birth to 36 months (three years). Some counties continue to provide the program for children 3 through Kindergarten entrance. Contact the local public health agency to learn if this is an option.

Application Instructions

Two ways to enroll:

Fee

There is no fee for this service.

Location

422 5th Ave, Ste 305, Madison, MN, 56256

Area Served

Lac qui Parle County

Phone Numbers

  • Primary Contact for this program: 320-843-4546
  • Toll Free: 800-255-0736

Email

ntofte@countryside.co.swift.mn.us

Websites

Other Locations

Other Services at this Location

  • Child and Teen Checkups (C&TC) Coordinators connect individuals to well-child care and screenings for eligible newborns, children and young adults
  • Family Home Visiting Expectant parents and parents or caregivers of young children can receive in-home support including education on pregnancy topics, parenting skills and connections to community resources.
  • Public Health Clinic Public health departments offer screenings, health education and wellness services
  • WIC - Supplemental Nutrition Program A nutrition and breastfeeding program that helps young families eat well and be healthy. Learn about nutrition during pregnancy and feeding your baby and young children; meet breastfeeding goals; and buy healthy food using your WIC card.

Last Update

10/7/2024