Special Needs External Resources

Caring for a child with special needs: Strategies for newcomer families

Learning that your child is born with a chronic illness or has special needs can be devastating for all families. But it can be isolating and extremely challenging for newcomer families as they navigate an unfamiliar healthcare system, without their traditional sources of community support. The terminology, diagnosis, treatment options, hospital visits and assessment or therapy appointments can be overwhelming in a new country. Language and cultural barriers may also lead to limited involvement and contribution to decision making leading to helplessness and sometimes a lack of trust in health professionals. Remember, you are not alone and can find the support you need. To help navigate this situation in a new country and manage the family’s well-being, here are a few strategies that can be shared with families.

Developmental delays and Autism in the Early Years

Children with autism and developmental disabilities benefit from increased visual aids and structure. It is so important to have a schedule in their classroom and home environment to minimize distractions. This article is a great place to start for more information about developmental delays and autism in the early years, and ideas for how you can help set children up for success in your program and at home.

How to partner with parents of children with Autism

CNC programs care for diverse groups of children, including those with ASD. ASD stands for Autism Spectrum Disorder, and there is a wide range of characteristics when it comes to diagnoses. Some children will function on a level where there are little to no noticeable behaviors whereas some will need one on one support. No matter where the child fits on the spectrum, here are some ways you can partner with parents and be sure that you are prepared and welcoming to any and all children in your program.

Podcast: Working with Children with Developmental Delays and Autism

In this podcast, HiMama chats with Dr. Cara Goodwin about the different ways educators and parents can not only support children with developmental delays and autism but how to recognize the signs early. Dr. Goodwin mentions that early intervention is the most effective thing we can do to help children reach their highest potential, and why it’s important to take action quickly to help support these children!


New Special Needs Tutorial Series: How to Write an IPP

Have you ever wondered about how an Individual Program Plan (IPP) works? Do you know how to write long- and short-term goals? The first tutorial in the two-part special needs series provides a step-by-step guide to writing an IPP, and an opportunity for CNC staff to learn about the different parts of an IPP, why they’re important, and how they work together to support a child. The second tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to writing an IPP – including long- and short-term goals that really support their programming and provide a clear direction for helping a child and family! Resources, references, a facilitator guide, and group discussion questions are also available for each tutorial in the learning centre.


Supporting Special Needs in Your Program

Envisioning a preschool environment that meets the needs of all students seems like a challenge, but it’s actually simpler than you may think. Find out more about how to create a program where every child thrives with good communication, a team effort, and some educational tools.

VIDEO: What is “Self-Reg”?

Have you ever wondered what it means when someone talks about "Self-Reg"? Here's a 1-minute video that explains Self-Reg: A 5-step method for reducing stress.

The ndds Celebrates 25 Years with Rebrand: Now Called “Looksee Checklist”!

In celebration of their 25th anniversary, The Nipissing District Developmental Screening Tool (ndds) has announced a new parent-friendly name and look for their signature developmental checklist. The new Looksee Checklist—reflects the simple, approachable quality of the product to appeal to even more parents and child care professionals. The series of checklists follow a child from 1 month to 6 years of age and provides a short list of yes or no questions about the child’s abilities along with tips to help them grow. The checklists are available in a variety of languages and formats including a redesigned, user-friendly website.

Sensory Processing Fact Sheet

What is sensory processing? Children with sensory processing issues can be oversensitive to sights, sounds, textures, flavours, smells and other sensory input. Here's a one-page fact sheet that provides essential information about why some kids struggle so much with sensory input, and how we can help!

Webinar- Engaging Families of Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities: Strategies to Enhance Your Practice

Engaging families can be a challenge, particularly if their infant or toddler has a disability or may show signs of developmental delay. Families of children with disabilities are often deluged by service providers and advice from early intervention teams, therapists, doctors, and other professionals. Join this session to learn strategies for enhancing family engagement practices for your program as well as your staff’s confidence in building culturally responsive partnerships with families of the infants and toddlers with disabilities included in your program.