Session # 1: Understanding Early Start & Supporting Families                                                                     

This presentation will begin with a basic overview of Early Start and Special Education, the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), the transition process and the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). It provides a foundation in understanding the transition steps as well as the similarities and differences between early intervention and special education programs.

In the second half, participants will discover insights, tools, and methods to collaborate with families that have a child with a known or suspected disability; understand parental grief; make use of community resources and PHP services; and work with parents who    may have their own disabilities. The focus is fostering resiliency in these families and their young children.

Session # 2: Learning Disability Simulation  

Experience firsthand through this learning disability simulation* different types of learning challenges faced on a daily basis by children/students with LD and/or ADHD challenges. A not-to-be-missed event for FIRST 5 partners, outside professionals and parents/caregivers, too!  You will emerge more sensitive, empathetic and better able to advocate for the child, no matter what his/her particular disability may be. *We use Experience Dyslexia materials offered through the International Dyslexia Association