The Bureau of Early Intervention has created a team of stakeholders, including families, to develop a plan for early intervention during COVID-19. The purpose of the plan is to ensure the safety of families while also ensuring access to early intervention services. For more weekly updates about the workgroup, see http://www.wiu.edu/coehs/provider_connections/bureau/covid_info/index.php
Currently, families have three ways to receive early intervention services: in-person, live video visits, and phone consultation. For more information about each option:
- Watch this webinar about early intervention
www.fmptic.org/recordings/family-matters-recordings/4494
Regarding the live video visits, if you need technology (e.g., devices, Internet access), you may consider:
- Review this link to find resources to secure technology and Internet access
http://www.wiu.edu/coehs/provider_connections/pdf/20200406livevideovisits.pdf - The Early Intervention Clearinghouse is loaning technology (i.e., iPads with data plans, iPads with Wi-Fi, and hotspots) to families for free
https://eiclearinghouse.org/resources/techloan/ - Rush University has a research project that will enable families to access technology for early intervention. Please contact Lauren Little for more information at (312) 942-1759 or lauren_little@rush.edu. This research study has ended as of 7/2021.
Originally written for the Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse Newsletter: Fall 2020
Related Resource(s)
- Tip Sheets: Having Safe In-Person Early Intervention Visits
- EI Newsletter: Volume 33, Issue 3 (Fall 2020)