Progress reviews 'unique' for three-year-olds

Officials behind new developmental reviews for three year olds in Jersey have called the scheme "unique" and a "first" for the island.

All families of three-year-old children who take part in the review will be given a "Me at Three" box which contains books and advice on child development.

It is being offered to families by Children, Young People, Education and Skills Department (CYPES) in partnership with Family Nursing and Home Care (FNHC).

The reviews will assess a child's physical wellbeing, speech and language skills as well as social and emotional needs before they start in Reception class.

It comes after the Early Years Policy Development Board (EYPDB) recommended the establishment of an integrated progress review for children at age three in 2021.

The review involved both the Education and Health Departments with conversations being held in schools to help address any needs or support the child might need.

Head of Early Years Nicola Mulliner said investment in early years support was "a really positive thing" and "a unique offer" because it was an integrated approach between parents, the child's key worker or teacher, and a health worker.

She added: "Having that triangulated, holistic approach to talk about and celebrate children's development is a first for Jersey so children will have a third opportunity to have this review".

The EYPDB said there was a lack of any further consistent information on children, following the one and two-year integrated reviews, until children are attending school, which is why the new scheme was recommended.

Michelle Cumming from FNHC is involved with the new developmental reviews.

She said: "We can look at a child being ready for school or reception and the school or reception being ready for the child... it's very much parent-led".

"We'll be looking at the child's physical wellbeing, how they're growing, their speech and language skills as well as social and emotional needs as well," Ms Cumming added.

The reviews will start next year and they will be organised by FNHC and schools.

Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [email protected].