Emily, 4 months

A transition can be defined as moving from one place or stage of development to another. Change, whether good or bad, can involve stress. Parents of children with disabilities may experience greater levels of stress, especially during critical events such as diagnosis of a disability, awaiting developmental milestones such as walking and talking, or moving from one program to another. Families may be relieved to learn that the anxiety they may feel during these critical events is common to others. Identifying and understand the events that may cause stress can help families anticipate and gain a better sense of control.

When the child matures and the Infant Development Programme is no longer an appropriate service for him or her, the family may want to look for an early childhood education program. Under the direction of qualified early childhood educators, children have the opportunity to learn language skills, appropriate social skills, cooperation, and self-help skills. There are a variety of choices for early childhood education programs for your child, including your neighborhood preschool, specialized preschool programs, daycare centres, and child development centres. Your Infant Development Consultant will be able to help you learn more about these choices.

Often children with developmental delays and ongoing special needs require assessments, program planning, and continued involvement with other professionals. These needs can be met in a specialized centre or a community setting which provides additional support. The key to a quality program for a child with special needs is an educator who is receptive to family involvement, and the involvement of other professionals. The Infant Development Consultant can provide families with information regarding observing and evaluating early childhood education programs and suggest several appropriate resources. As the child? parents, you are the most knowledgeable about your child? and family? needs and strengths. Investigating several programs will help you choose the best resource for your child. If you are comfortable with the early childhood education program you have chosen, your child will have an easier time adjusting to, and benefiting from the experience.

Often overlooked when a child moves to another program, is that the family not just the child is in transition. Families can have common experiences as they adjust to new programs for their child. These experiences are varied for each family but may include missing the child who is away from home more, dealing with the child? adjustment and their own and professionals?personal responses to this transition. Infant Development Consultants can assist families by providing appropriate materials and organizing services in ways to reduce pressures on the family.