First Step Infant Programs




In the first few years children learn more and at a faster pace than at any other time in their lives.

First Step offers three programs to meet the needs of infants and toddlers (0-3) and their families in Clinton and Washington Counties. Children experiencing developmental delays, or with a medical condition that may cause developmental delays may be eligible for Early Intervention Services. Children not eligible for Early Intervention Services, but who may be experiencing some developmental delays, OR children whose parents are interested in receiving information and learning ways to teach through play may be eligible to participate in Parents As Teachers.
Children whose families meet the Federal Income Guidelines, as well as pregnant women, may be eligible for Early Head Start. For 2008-2009 EHS Annual Report Early Intervention staff are credentialed to provide Early Intervention services in Illinois. Staff in both Early Intervention and Early Head Start are also certified as parent educators by the Parents As Teachers National Center. We support current research findings that the early years have a great impact on a child's overall growth and development.
We the First Step staff, know that families want what is best for their child and know their strengths and needs. We will join with the family to guide them to resources within the community that will meet those needs. We view the family as an essential partner throughout their involvement in the program. During the first few years, children learn more and at a faster pace than at any other time in their lives. First Step helps parents acquire the knowledge and skills to make the most of these crucial early learning years. Services are individualized for each child based on each family's priorities and values. These services, provided in the child's natural environment, are easily accessible and community-based and are provided by professionals who have knowledge and expertise with young children and families. Presently, Illinois state law made provisions for these services to be provided. Some services are provided at no charge to the family; charges for other services are based on a sliding fee scale. If a family is concerned that their child is experiencing a delay in his development or just interested in developmental information, we will assess the child's development in the home by looking at his/her skills in the following areas:
	Fine Motor Gross Motor Cognitive/problem solving Communication Adaptive Personal/Social
When a child enters the program, an Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) will be developed with the family. This IFSP will summarize family and child strengths, concerns and services to be provided. This plan may be modified as needed. Services might include:

Screening/assessment
Speech therapy
Physical therapy
Occupational Therapy
Developmental instruction that encourages growth & development through therapeutic play

Service facilitation
Consultations with other disciplines
Family support
Health & nutrition information
Transportation assistance

Referrals can be made by contacting:
T.K. Elimon, Infant Program Director
	1665 North Fourth Street Breese, IL 62230	Phone/TDD: (618) 526-8800 Fax: (618) 526-2021
Email: TKE@commlink.org

Community Link, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit organization per Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All contributions are tax deductible.