Learning is enhanced when you take time to reflect on the process. This week, you will have a journal that asks you to complete a reading and discuss your reaction in relation to the topic for the unit. Your reflection and writing will help with your understanding of the content covered.

This week, you have reviewed observation and assessment strategies in the early childhood environment and learned that part of the assessment process is partnering with a child’s family. You have also explored the Individuals with Disabilities Act as it relates to early intervention. As discussed in the Early intervention: A critical support for infants, toddlers, and families reading, it is important for parents to be informed about developmental screenings, early intervention services available in your community, and that, for children who qualify, intervention services cannot be denied due to a family’s inability to pay.

Please recall the following form your readings:

• IDEA Section 1432 defines “at risk infant or toddler” as an individual under the age of three who would be at risk of experiencing a substantial developmental delay if early intervention services were not provided.
• IDEA Section 303.303 identifies child-care program and early learning programs as a primary source of referral for referring for early intervention services.

In at least 300 words, please respond to the following questions:

• As an administrator, how would you provide this information about screenings, community resources and no-cost services to families in your center?
• Since early learning programs are considered a primary source of referral, as the administrator of the program, how will ensure your staff is continuously educated in the area of the early intervention referral process and early detection?
• What is the role family’s play when gathering data for assessments of a child?