The third step in the OCDRP system of assessment is Referral.

Where to Go Next – Referral means that a teacher is requesting or suggesting that there is a need for professional assistance beyond the capabilities of the program staff in order to meet the needs of a child’s behavior or skill acquisition.

Referrals are made ONLY after PARENT permission and agreement is given.  It could be suggested to a parent that he/she make the referral contact, but program staff should support that contact or offer to make it if the parent cannot.  Parents who do not feel comfortable speaking to or meeting with referral agencies or individuals should be assisted by program staff as advocates.

Every Program should have a Resource List available to parents and teachers showing professional individuals and agencies in the community who can be of service to in the determination of any needs a child may have.  Administrators should compile the Resource List or find one suggested by local licensing agencies. 

A good Resource List should include physicians, therapists, psychologists, diagnosticians, screeners, or agencies relating to specific aspects in each of the Learning Areas and in issues relating to Family.

• Body               General Health, Growth, Hearing, Vision, Speech, Physicality             
• Mind               Attention Span, Focus, Speech, Learning Differences
• Spirit              Anxiety, Impulsivity, Depression, Fear
• Family           Concerns about Health, Abuse, Neglect, Finance, or Emergencies

Special Interest groups that deal with parenting issues such as health, disabilities, multiples, adopted children, single parenting, same-sex couple parenting are also helpful to parents.

The BEST programs include ALL of the above AND help parents find the right resources AND provide education and training programs for their parents          ON-SITE!

Here’s Where Things Can Get a Little Sticky – It is hard for parents to hear that there may be something “different” about their child’s ability to learn and develop fully. In fact, in some instances, it can be excruciating. Explaining to a parent that his/her child may have special needs that you need assistance in defining or diagnosing is not easy and must be done using facts without opinion or judgement.

You must NEVER diagnose! You must refer to professionals for this. You owe this to each child, each parent, and the reputation of your program.

No Surprises – As the bearer of the message that a child may need referral, you may be on the receiving end of tears, questions, defensiveness, and anger. If you have communicated your concerns early and often during the year, this will be an easier process. If suddenly mid-way or late in the year you announce you have concerns serious enough to warrant referral, you need to retrain yourself on both observation and communication skills. If you find yourself in the position of suggesting referral for a child, use the advice on conferences later in the next blog.

Next Blog: Planning and Conferences