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Early Childhood Intervention Program Week

May 3, 2011 | 6:46 PM

The week of May 1-7, 2011 has been designated as “Early Childhood Intervention Program Week” in Saskatchewan by the Minister of Education, Donna Harpauer.

This is a week to celebrate the successes of the Early Childhood Intervention Programs (ECIPs) across our province – the work the programs do and the families who participate in the services.

Early Childhood Intervention Programs serve families who have children, aged birth to kindergarten, with developmental delays.

The service is provided mainly through home visits to the family. A 'listening ear' is provided to the family as we learn about their successes and concerns.

The child's development is discussed and ideas are shared as to activities that will support further development, as well as information about various other services available. Families are connected to other ECIP families if they wish. Information about specific delays is also shared when needed. Families and their Interventionist are 'partners' in developing the goals and directions for each child.

ECIP programs lend out toys and children's books to the families; there is also a library of resources for parents that cover a range of topics like child development, various disabilities, learning activities, etc.

Families can refer themselves for services, or can be referred by others such as a doctor, nurse, speech pathologist, etc. as long as the family knows the referral is being submitted. Before entering ECIP, a staff member will meet with the family to explain the services in more depth.

The Prince Albert ECIP is one of 13 programs across Saskatchewan and serves Prince Albert and the surrounding area. PAECIP can be reached by phoning 922-3247 for more information. Other ECIPs across the province can be reached by checking on the Ministry of Education's website.