Free Autism Screenings for Children Under 5 Offered in Essex County

Youth Consultation Service now provides free autism evaluations for kids under five in East Orange, Newark, Irvington, and Orange. The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey funds this work.

The nonprofit behavioral health and social services agency announced this initiative on Dec. 24. Evaluations happen by appointment at the Institute for Infant and Preschool Mental Health.

YCS has grown its capacity to provide developmentally focused autism assessments. Clinicians who work with young children conduct these evaluations. The service aims to improve access for families who struggle to get timely assessments. Many parents face long waits.

"Providing free autism evaluations helps ensure more children receive early developmental support during the most critical years of growth," said Tara Augustine, President and CEO of YCS, per RLS media. "With autism now affecting one in 29 children in New Jersey, early evaluation and intervention are essential. The earlier children receive support, the more opportunities they have to develop lifelong skills and thrive."

One in 29 kids in New Jersey has autism. That's a striking statistic. It makes early evaluation critical for families across the state.

The Institute for Infant and Preschool Mental Health offers more than autism assessments. Services include developmental screenings, therapy, caregiver guidance, and interventions that support the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. Staff work with the whole family.

Evaluations are offered in English and Spanish. The Institute sits at 60 Evergreen Place, 10th Floor, in East Orange.

Families and child-serving providers in the four cities can schedule a free autism evaluation by calling (973) 395-5500 or by emailing institute@ycs.org. More information about the organization and its services is available at ycs.org.