Marin County

First 5 Marin’s Early Childhood Special Needs/Mental Health (SNMH) Initiative provides a coordinated and seamless system of outreach and information, developmental screening, and referral and support
services for early identification and intervention for developmental delays, disabilities, and social/emotional and
behavioral issues. In coordination with the five School Readiness Initiative sites (San Rafael/Canal, Novato, Shoreline/West Marin, San Geronimo/Nicasio and Marin City/Sausalito), community-based organizations, public agencies, and healthcare providers work collaboratively with families, teachers, and childcare providers to support children with mild to serious special needs and mental health issues.

In addition to the universal, developmental screening of children beginning at 9 months and continuing with recommended periodicity at all of Marin’s clinics, Kaiser Permanente and many private pediatricians are also screening their patients as part of their well-child care.

In the last two years, Marin's Early Childhood Special Needs/Mental Health Initiative has served the following children and families:
 
4,720 children have completed developmental  screening
825 children were identified with moderate to serious developmental concerns
683 children and families received additional developmental services
296 children were linked to mandated services
242 families received mental health services
102 families received PCIT
417 children were screened for vision and hearing
768 early childhood professionals received training and coaching