Rady Children's Hospital San Diego

Children's Care Connection (C3)

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Children's Care Connection (C3)

Children's Care Connection (C3) is a unique program funded by the First 5 Commission of San Diego. It is designed to identify children birth to 5 years old who are at risk for mild developmental and/or behavioral problems and provide services for them and their families. Early identification and intervention make it possible for children to receive appropriate support to enhance and support their development and school readiness.

C3 provides FREE services to families residing in four regions of San Diego County: North Coastal, North Central, North Inland and South Bay. Call 1-877-8C3-KIDS to determine which region you reside in.

To identify children who are at risk, C3 uses a two-stage screening/assessment process:

  1. Parents fill out a brief questionnaire that provides an opportunity to state their concerns about their child’s development and/or behavior.
  2. If there are concerns, C3 provides a more in-depth developmental/behavioral assessment and works with the family to make appropriate recommendations and referrals.Intervention may include referrals to other agencies or recommendations for parenting and child enrichment classes provided by C3. These classes are specific to the age of the child and are focused on general development, speech and language, motor skills, and behavior. Some classes are for parents and children; others are for parents only. Classes are offered during the day or evening.

Summary of C3 services:

  • Two-stage screening and assessment process
  • Parent education classes (English and Spanish) – at C3 sites and in the community
  • Treatment classes for parents and children or parents only
  • Referrals to appropriate agencies for more in-depth evaluations and services
  • Community outreach programs

For more information about C3 and child development, visit our sister website, also funded by the First 5 Commission :

For maps and driving directions, click here. For more information please call 1-877-8-C3 KIDS.

 Video 
Watch this video to learn more about the Rady Childrens Hospital Pediatric Developmental & Behavioral Health.
Image - C3

Contact Information:

Toll-Free Number: 1-(877)-8C3-KIDS

Oceanside
4120 Waring Road;
858-966-8014

San Diego
8010 Frost Street
858-966-8931

San Marcos
380 Mulberry Drive;
760-591-0179

South Bay
Otay Elementary, Chula Vista and Casita De Salud, and San Ysidro
619-681-0655

What's New:

  • C3 is now offering Healthy Development Check-ups and Parent Coaching sessions at Rady Children's Solana Beach Center to address parents' questions about their childrens' behavior. To schedule an appointment, please call 858-966-8014.