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: The tool typically evaluates several domains, including Behavioral/Emotional Needs, Life Functioning, Risk Behaviors, and Caregiver Resources.

You can find official documentation and the most current reference guides on the New York State Department of Health website or the OCFS Reference Guide (PDF) .

: The caregiver's viewpoint is critical; their input should be gathered first before coalescing other points of view. 0 (5).mp4

The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment is designed to support decision-making, such as level of care and service planning. The 0-5 version is specifically modified to be developmentally appropriate for very young children.

Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths – New York 0-5 - OCFS : The tool typically evaluates several domains, including

: At the end of the session, summarize both needs and strengths to help the family see the total picture, and allow them to adjust any ratings if they feel a detail was missed.

When preparing to conduct a CANS assessment for a young child, practitioners are encouraged to follow these guidelines: The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS)

: Use empathetic listening (smiling, nodding, maintaining eye contact) to build rapport with the caregiver.