SHREVEPORT, La. – A free developmental screening program at LSU Shreveport has drawn nearly 300 families this summer, far exceeding expectations and underscoring what educators say is a growing need for school psychology services across Louisiana.
The screenings, offered through LSU Shreveport’s School Psychology program, assess children ages 2 to 6 in areas such as communication, cognitive development, motor skills, social-emotional growth and self-help skills. Families receive individualized results and recommendations at no cost.
Amber Harris, Ph.,D., an assistant professor in psychology and a former school psychologist, said organizers initially hoped about 25 families would participate.
The screenings are conducted by graduate students working toward specialist degrees in school psychology under faculty supervision. The assessments are designed to identify developmental delays and help parents better understand their child’s readiness for preschool or kindergarten…