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INFANTS AND TODDLERS with developmental delays can make significant gains through early intervention when they receive services while they are very young (Nelson 2009). Caregivers and teachers are in a unique position to observe infants and toddlers in these early stages of development. They know the developmental milestones and have the opportunity to take notes on the development of all the children in their programs. Their observations, notes, and assessments are important tools for identifying possible development concerns that might arise in the course of a young child's early life. Sharing these concerns with families is a first step in the referral process toward early intervention.
Important and sometimes difficult conversations
For an infant/toddler caregiver or teacher concerned about a child's development, it is very important to prepare supporting information and to share concerns with families in a thoughtful way. Some families may raise their own concerns with you, but others may not for a number of reasons. In some cases, families may have observed delays but are not emotionally ready to address them. Other families may lack information about typical development (see "How to Raise Concerns with Families").
We all want the best possible outcomes for the children in our care. Early intervention is one important way to help infants and toddlers with delays reach their full potential. Even though having an initial conversation with families about concerns may be difficult, initiating the conversation means that you care about this family and their child's development and learning.
Conversations can be difficult for a number of reasons. Some infant/toddler teachers say they fear that the family may take their child to another program if they bring up developmental concerns. This is one reaction families may have when they first learn about their child possibly having delays. If such a reaction occurs, keep in mind that it is not personal but all a part of the family's journey toward learning about their child's unique development.
Ongoing relationships
The relationship between teachercaregiver and family is key from the child's first day in the program. When there is mutual trust, good communication, and respect, families feel comfortable talking about their concerns and are open to hearing those of their child's teacher. With good communication in place, families feel...