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Assessing Needs and Strengths-Child

Comprehensive family assessment includes specifically screening for and assessing the needs and strengths of children and youth. Assessment strategies and tools designed for children and youth help determine the need for intervention and the types of intervention needed to promote safety, permanency, and well-being.

Screening is conducted as a preliminary step to identify safety concerns, risks, strengths, and resources and to determine the best possible response to the child, parent, and family. This may include appropriate services and/or referral for further assessment and evaluation.

• Well-being/behavior
• Development/health
• School readiness
• Trauma
• Mental health

Selected Resources Well-Being and Family-Centered Services: The Value of the Developmental Assets Framework Mannes (2001) In Balancing Family-Centered Services and Child Well-Being: Exploring Issues in Policy, Practice, Theory, and Research View Abstract An explanation of the developmental assets framework created by the Search Institute to identify risk and protective factors for children and youth. The Biopsychosocial Assessment of the Child Webb (2003) In Social Work Practice With Children View Abstract Discusses the variety of evaluation approaches that can be used in all areas of the child's life, including development, behavior, education, attachment, and family relationships.

Updated on December 7, 2007