Use of the FirstSTEp screening tool with children exposed to domestic violence and homelessness: a group case study

Children who experience homelessness and domestic violence enter early childhood programs with developmental and behavioral challenges. Thoroughly evaluating these children can be daunting for daycare staff without advanced training. Occupational therapists can provide child development expertise and consultation. This group case study examined the FirstSTEp screening tool's ability to measure the behavioral, developmental, and emotional changes of 19 pre-schoolers who experienced homelessness and witnessed domestic violence. The tool was found to be effective with this population.