AUCD/CDC Act Early Covid 19 Response and Ambassador Activities
Project Description:
Early identification and intervention for children with and at risk for disabilities is both mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and linked with improved outcomes for children and their families; yet, concerns remain that at-risk children are not being adequately identified (Rosenberg et al., 2013) in order to receive these critical early intervention services (Rosenberg et al., 2007). This concern is evident in Delaware and has been amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, as families of young children often struggle to understand and navigate the complex systems of developmental screening, referral, and connection to early interventions services. Led by Delaware's Learn the Signs. Act Early. (LTSAE) Ambassador, this year-long project utilized a cross-sector collaborative model to inform community needs and pilot strategies within the state to promote family resiliency and best practices in early identification. An interdisciplinary statewide team ("LTSAE Statewide Team") supported the project's implementation of a comprehensive needs assessment, which was conducted with families, early childhood providers, and other stakeholders in order to inform the development of project trainings and resources. The LTSAE Ambassador infused CDC's LTSAE messaging and resources into project activities and in collaboration with state team members' ongoing initiatives.
Core Function(s):
Continuing Education/Community Training
Area of Emphasis
Education & Early Intervention, Child Care-Related Activities, Health-Related Activities
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Urban
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
Yes
