A Program Built to Meet the Special Needs of Every Child.

We believe parents and family members are the ultimate experts and decision makers about their children. We work in partnership with families to enhance the learning and development of each child. Children may receive services in a home-based program or in a structured learning environment combined with bi-weekly home visits. These services further the overall development of the child while supporting the well being of the family. An individual plan is developed for each child and family to address their specific needs. These goals are achieved by working in a family centered, interdisciplinary team model where parents are respected as the ultimate experts and decision makers about their children.

The Home-Base Program

Children from birth to approximately 1 year, those who are too medically fragile, or those whose parents, for a variety of reasons are unable to participate in the structured environment, are served in a home only program. Home visits offer an opportunity to address the individual needs of families on a one-to-one basis with an emphasis on enhancing the child’s development and family life. Home-based activities are reflective of everyday family experiences, routines, relationships and practices and are inclusive of all family members present. Home visits may take place wherever the family’s need exists, including the family’s home, a neighborhood park, a local market or restaurant, the doctor’s office, or in the home of a family friend or relative. Home visits may also involve the participation of other individuals outside the immediate family including extended family members, neighbors and friends.

The Structured Learning and Play Environment

Children from 18 months to 3 years are served in a structured learning and play environment. These children attend on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 3 hours per day. Children with special needs also receive bi-weekly home visits. Our center utilizes a “play-based” curriculum. Children are provided the opportunity to learn through “play” and daily routines. These daily routines include: child initiated free play, opening circle, a small group activity, outdoor activities, meal time, music and movement, and a final closing circle. Our daily activities are carefully designed to help young children learn skills in many areas including social skills and self-esteem, communication and language skills, motor skills and self-help (independence), and school readiness skills.

Inclusive Programming

The structured learning environment also welcomes infants and toddlers without disabilities whose parents are interested in a family centered early learning environment dedicated to diversity and celebration of the family role in development and learning. Their participation in the program provides young children with disabilities an opportunity to engage with and learn from typically developing peers.

Transition Planning

All families receive assistance and support as their children move from early intervention services into preschool services at age 3. Early intervention specialists work with families and local agencies to create seamless transitions. Families receive training and information from a variety of community agencies in preparation for transition.

Additional Services and Support

Program staff will assist families with access and coordination of many different types of services and referrals including:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and In-Home Supportive Service (IHSS)
• Translation Services
• Medical and Therapeutic Services
• Nutrition
• Speech
• Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy
• Mental Health

To learn more on how our programs can help you gain the supplemental support and services you need, call our offices at (323) 343-4420 or e-mail us at services@centrodeninos.org