Specialized Training - Low Incidence Disability
Project Home | Child and Family Outcomes | RI Early Intervention Providers | Training Programs | Recruitment & Retention | Publications | Forms & Documents | Individualized Family Service Plan | Transition from Early Intervention
As part of our contract with the RI Department of Human Services, the Sherlock Center is asked to increase the clinical capacity of the EI system relative to four specialty populations. These are:
- children who are deaf and hard of hearing
- children with vision impairments
- children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- children who present with infant mental health concerns
Our technical assistance goals include identifying local and national expertise; maximizing the experience/expertise of EI staff in these areas; identifying training needs and system barriers; disseminating recommended practice; and offering regular opportunities for staff to be trained and to engage in case reviews across programs.
To achieve these goals, we developed a pyramid framework as an organizational tool.
At the bottom on the pyramid:
- All EI Providers
- Need to understand diagnostic criteria and observational 'red flags'
- Training in basic strategies that are effective with these populations
- Skills for discussing observations and resources with families
In the middle of the pyramid:
- Special Population Mentors
- A staff persons nominated by each program who has additional interest/training in each area
- Mentors act as on-site resource for other staff
- Meet regularly for trainings, case reviews, and updates on initiatives and other trainings
At the top of the pyramid:
- EI Specialty Providers
- Local, regional, national resources
- Community options and parent organizations
- Need to understand diagnostic criteria and observational 'red flags'
- Training in basic strategies that are effective with these populations
- Skills for discussing observations and resources with families
- A staff persons nominated by each program who has additional interest/training in each area
- Mentors act as on-site resource for other staff
- Meet regularly for trainings, case reviews, and updates on initiatives and other trainings
W3C approved.