The Benefits of Infant Development Specialists During Early Intervention

What is Early Intervention?

Early intervention (EI) refers to support and various services that aid children, ages birth to three, in strengthening possible developmental delays or disabilities. These services target the development of the child and provide families with support methods as well. Some examples of early intervention include different therapies, education practices, and family support programs (BARC, 2022). Early intervention focuses on helping babies and toddlers learn and strengthen skills which include: cognitive, communication (language), physical (motor), social-emotional, and adaptive (self-help). With early intervention, children are able to develop new skills, strengthen additional processes, and build a foundation for learning and growing.

Eligibility for early intervention services is based on a child’s abilities and skills. In fact, “the identification of a disorder through developmental screening programs is often a precursor to accessing early intervention” (Tollan, 2023). Eligible children are able to receive services from birth through their third birthday. In some cases, different intervention programs and therapies may continue on, in an alternate program.  Parents do not have to wait to receive a referral, but, if  a parent is worried about their child’s development, they are able to contact a local program for evaluation services (see end of page). 

Early intervention offers several benefits for children and their families. For one, EI can significantly improve a child’s emotional, social and cognitive development. By addressing and analyzing delays early, children have a better chance of reaching their full potential. It is important that “every child’s experience includes access to diverse learning opportunities, meaningful interactions with peers, and development of a sense of belonging” (Tollan, 2023). 

In addition, families are able to receive extra support from specialists to help their children succeed.  Some examples include: access to more information, training, and additional resources that encourage and empower parents to be advocates for their children. 

Infant Development Specialist and Their Role

When a child is in need of early intervention, there is a team of professionals that work together to help the child and family. In many cases, children will require an Infant Development Specialist (IDS) to conduct sessions to strengthen each developmental domain, work on an array of skills, and educate parents on how to support their child. Infant Development Specialists “takes an active role in every step of the early intervention process to support the child and family developmentally” (Aytekin, 2016). An IDS tracks all areas of development and learning, including: physical, mental, social, emotional, and language development. In addition, an IDS designs personalized intervention sessions for each child's unique needs. For instance, if a 1 year old child needs help in strengthening fine motor skills, an IDS will work on grabbing and stacking toy blocks. The role of an IDS is not only important in helping a young child grow, but also helping parents and families to guide their children through challenges and milestones through their development.

In helping children and their families, it is integral to work as a team to ensure success in a child’s development. For example, some children require additional therapy, so strong communication and schedule coordination help to create a strong network for the child and their family. In addition to working with alternate therapists, working together with the family is just as important. “Engaging families in the planning and decision-making process ensures that interventions are tailored to the child’s unique needs and family circumstances” (BARC, 2022). Parents seek guidance to create supportive home and learning environments for their child's development. An IDS can offer specialized practices, resources, and activities to strengthen the bond with the child and family.

Conclusion

Early intervention can make a significant difference in the lives of children who have autism, cognitive delays, or other disabilities. With the help of an Infant Development Specialist, a child is able to learn and master skills and reach their full potential. An IDS aims to help a child improve their learning, manage emotions effectively, and offer guidance on fostering social-emotional skills. Furthermore, families are able to learn how to support their child through various intervention processes and learning sessions. The role of an IDS is the foundation for a child’s overall development, creating a stepping stone in skills like communication. Without the integration of early intervention practices and therapies, children miss the great opportunities to improve several areas of development. Thanks to highly qualified and knowledgeable professionals, like an IDS, children are set up for a successful future of learning and growing important skills. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING EARLY INTERVENTION IN YOUR STATE: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/parents/states.html

ARTICLES

Aytekin, C. (2016). Role of Child Development Specialist in Early Intervention Process. Recent Advances in Health Sciences , 414–426.

BARC. (2022). Early intervention technical assistance: Resources for parents and professionals. Barc Programs. https://www.barcprograms.org/early-intervention-technical-assistance-resources-for-parents-and-professionals/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAlsy5BhDeARIsABRc6ZsrvUtgahX-e4DsEktH3T-LwhZiDcJ5M8GMhj_4ZvBjzPFlozuJiJ8aAjF4EALw_wcB

Tollan, K., Jezrawi, R., Underwood, K., & Janus, M. (2023). A review on Early Intervention Systems. Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 10(2), 147–153. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-023-00274-8