The Summer 2026 edition of the Early Intervention Clearinghouse newsletter is available in English and Spanish.
This edition of the newsletter highlights the many Early Intervention (EI) Clearinghouse resources available. As a free statewide lending library for families, caregivers, and professionals, our goal is to provide trusted resources to support you in helping children grow, learn, and participate in everyday life. We offer FREE resources for families and providers including books, tipsheets, eBooks, audiobooks, and kits about the early intervention program, child development, disabilities, family activities, and more!
In addition to our library collection, we have:
- A website featuring how to get started in EI, resource guides, and articles,
- A technology loan program for families participating in the Early Intervention program to use for live video visits.
- Professional development resources and MORE
For more detailed information, families can explore the full tip sheet The EI Clearinghouse Is Your Information Station.
In addition, the newsletter shares the new Supporting Your Young Child in the Hospital Toolbox for families, which contains practical tools, supportive resources, and family stories, in addition to the new booklet, Early Intervention: A NICU Parent’s Guide to Early Intervention Services and Resources. If you would like to request copies of our new NICU guide mailed to you, please fill out our Contact Form.
Also included in the newsletter are IDHS updates on Differentiated Monitoring and Support (DMS 2.0). The goal of this process is to improve outcomes and results for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families and ensure compliance with program requirements. Updates are also provided regarding the State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) as leadership teams are meeting regularly and working on their action plans.
This edition of the newsletter also includes an opportunity to enter our summer giveaway. Complete the entry form by 6/30/26 for a chance to win a prize package from the Clearinghouse! All entries received by 6/30/26 will receive a gift in the mail. The winner can choose the preferred language for books.
Finally, the newsletter shares information on a few events that the Clearinghouse will be attending across the state this summer. Come see the Clearinghouse at the Institute for Parents of Preschool Children Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing Informational Fair in Jacksonville (June 12, 2026) and the American Library Association Conference in Chicago (June 25-29). We hope to see you there!
You can find all previous issues of the Early Intervention Clearinghouse newsletter on our website in English and Spanish.
Illinois Early Intervention (EI) Family Support Group
The EI Clearinghouse (EIC) is excited to share the news that we are facilitating a Facebook support group for families involved in the Illinois early intervention program. This digital discussion board, available through the social networking site Facebook, offers parents and caregivers an opportunity to share concerns, ask questions and relay experiences regarding their child with developmental delays. Through feedback from participants in the EI program we have learned that parents and caregivers want more opportunities to interact with other parents. This online support group was created to facilitate families connecting with other families and supporting during the challenging times of early childhood. The group is open to parents and caregivers of children currently involved with the Illinois early intervention program or those that have recently transitioned out of the program. This group is organized by the Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse Parent Advisory Council.
To join the group, when logged into Facebook, search: “IL Early Intervention Family Support Group” or follow this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ileifamilies
This support group is available to parents and caregivers of children currently or recently participating in Illinois Early Intervention program.
About the Clearinghouse
The Illinois Early Intervention (EI) Clearinghouse identifies and collects research-based and best-practice early intervention information to share with families. We are a resource for you; contact us via our online form or by phone at (877) 275-3227. In addition to our website full of recommended digital resources, we have a lending library of books, eBooks, audiobooks and videos elated to the development of young children with special needs and their families.
Please let us know if you need any resources or information; we are always happy to help!
Sarah Isaacs, Library Director
Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse