Build Up Michigan

Concerned about your child’s development?

If you have a pre-kindergarten-aged child between the ages of 3 and 5 in the Kent ISD service area and suspect they may be struggling to learn, Build Up is here for you. We connect parents with resources and their local school districts.

Kent ISD Service Area Map

Free Evaluations and Services

If you are worried about your child meeting developmental milestones, fill out our Inquiry form to initiate the evaluation process. Eligible children receive evaluations and services through their local school district. Evaluations and services are FREE.

Empowering Parents with Build Up

Build Up supports parents and their children, offering additional education support to ensure they acquire essential skills for kindergarten entry. Early intervention through supportive services is essential to overcoming learning challenges.

Get in Touch

For more information, contact our office, or complete the inquiry form below. We’re here to assist your child’s educational journey!

FAQ

Who can refer?
Anyone!

What happens after an inquiry is placed?
Depending on the information provided, your inquiry may be routed to your local school district for processing, or you may be contacted by the Build Up office for further information.

Can I contact my local school district’s Special Education department directly?
Sure! You can find their contact information here: [link to come]

What if I don’t live within the Kent ISD service area?
Check out this directory of Michigan Build Up Coordinators

Additional Resources

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website to learn more about your preschooler's developmental milestones.

What Most Children Do at Age 3*

Copies adults and friends
Takes turns in games
Follows instructions with 2 or 3 steps
Plays make-believe with dolls, animals and people
May get upset with major changes in routine
May copy a circle with a pencil or crayon
Turns book pages one at a time
Runs easily

What Most Children Do at Age 4*

Enjoys doing new things
Would rather play with other children than by him/herself
Sings a song or says a poem from memory such as "Itsy Bitsy Spider" or "Wheels on the Bus"
Can say first and last name
Able to name some colors and numbers
Catches a bounced ball most of the time
Often can't tell what's real and what's make-believe

What Most Children Do at Age 5*

Hops; may be able to skip
Can print some letters or numbers
Likes to sing, dance and act
Is aware of gender
Can tell what's real and what's make-believe
Can play simple games such as Candy Land and Go Fish
Wants to be like friends
Is sometimes demanding and sometimes very cooperative

Need more information? Learn more about Build Up services, or call the Michigan Special Education Information Line at 1-888-320-8384.