Chapter Seven

Early Intervention and Early Education

Family Support

Nearly 20% of families are not familiar with IFSP.

IFSP Video

Family Issues and Challenges

43% of families receiving early intervention services had incomes of $25,000 or less.

Early Intervention Provider

The role of the provider is to "enhance the family's capacity to meet the developmental needs of the infant/toddler" (IDEA 2004, Section 1436.)

The role of the early interventionist is to coach the caregiver on meaningful intervention to support functional outcomes, increase the child's participation in everyday routines, and promote positive interaction between caregiver and child.

Navigating Services and Supports

The home is the natural site for caregiving. Nursing or respite services are frequently provided in the home.

Nursing and repsite serves are limited due to affordability and accessibility. Their is simply no funding for families.

Even if their is payment, adequately trained staff is in short supply.

Insurance often creates barriers for families with children with disabilities. Prior approvals, waiting periods, require the full attention of the family caregiver to navigate the system. Let alone successfully obtaining the services for their children.

Systematic and Individualized Instruction

Systematic Instruction can be embedded in the daily routines that are in the early care and education settings.

Types of Embedded Instruction

providing peer support

Embedded Instruction Video

providing special equipment

adapting materials