Sharon Raver-Lampman, Ph.D.

Old Dominion University

Dept. of Early Childhood, Speech-Language Pathology,

�� & Special Education (ESSE)

Child Study Center 208

Norfolk, VA 23508-0136

(757) 683-4877/3226

FAX (757) 683-5593

This workshop will examine the efficacy of early intervention with infants and toddlers with disabilities (e.g., mental retardation, physical disabilities, communication delays, visual/hearing impairments) in the United States.� There will be a discussion of the basic principles, and strategies, for enhancing the development of young children with disabilities.� Participants will be shown how to embed these principles into everyday activities and events such as bathing, mealtimes, and family activities so children are better able to realize their full potential.

Additionally, participants will be shown several videotape case studies.� They will have a chance to learn about each child’s and family’s needs as well as how early interventionists attempted to meet those needs.� These videotapes will demonstrate the principles being implemented.

����������� Participants will then have an opportunity to observe a videotape of another child, and that child’s parents.� They will be guided through the five steps for developing an intervention plan for infants and toddlers with disabilities, and their families:� (1) identify priorities for the child and family, (2) identify long-term goals (annual) and short-term objectives designed to facilitate the child’s development, (3) identify routines and activities within the family’s life that will serve as a context for addressing the target objectives without overloading the family, (4) identify methods/strategies for evaluating the progress of objectives, and (5) identify ways for supporting family members emotionally and instrumentally.

����������� The workshop will place emphasis on low-cost/no-cost materials and activities that can be easily embedded into any family interaction or activity.� Participants will learn practical, inexpensive ways to maximize the learning of very young children with learning and physical challenges.