Services
Referrals
STRIDE Learning Center engages in various public awareness activities to educate families and referral sources on available early intervention services. Referral sources may include parents, health care providers, and child care providers. Screenings and evaluations are provided by trained professionals and in accordance with state and federal regulations. Parents are active members of the evaluation team and are part of the eligibility determination process. Screenings and evaluations are provided without cost to the family.
Infant and Toddler
Research indicates that the first three years of a child's life are one of the most important times for learning. Starting services early improves a child's ability to develop and learn. The Infant and Toddler Program is for children from birth through two years of age and their families. Children qualify based on the results of developmental evaluations which include hearing and vision screenings. Children may also qualify if it is determined that they are at risk for developmental delays. Parents collaborate with professionals to develop an Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP). The IFSP includes:
A description of the child's present levels of performance,
Concerns, priorities and resources for the child and family,
Outcomes for the child and family, and
A description of specific early intervention services necessary to meet the unique needs of the child and family.
Infant and toddler services are provided in the child's natural environment which may include the child's home, child care center, home child/day care, or Early Head Start. Services are delivered on a year round basis. Prior to the child’s third birthday, another evaluation may be completed to determine if the child is eligible for specialized education and related services. All early intervention services are provided without cost to the family.
Developmental Preschool Program
The Developmental Preschool Program addresses the needs of children three through five years of age. Eligibility is determined through a developmental evaluation process which includes hearing and vision screenings. Parents collaborating with professionals develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP includes:
strengths and concerns of the child,
goals for the child,
how often, where, and who will provide these services, and
modifications and/or accommodations the child may need in order to be successful in education.
Developmental Preschool Program services are generally delivered through two mechanisms. Services by an early childhood special education teacher, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapist, or physical therapist may be provided directly to a child. These specialists also consult with the child's family, and if applicable, with other child care providers. Services may also be provided indirectly through a consultative model. This consultation also occurs with the family and other child care providers. Generally services are provided through a traditional school calendar year. Extended school year services are provided when deemed necessary by the IEP Team. An emphasis is placed on providing services whenever possible in settings which include children without developmental delays. During a child's pre-kindergarten year, a transition plan is developed by the parents, STRIDE Learning Center staff, and representatives from the receiving school This process is designed to ensure a smooth transition without a delay in IEP services. All developmental preschool services are provided without cost to the family.
Special Education
Early Childhood Special Education services are provided for preschool children with developmental delays in the cognitive, personal-social, and adaptive domains. The Early Childhood Special Education Program at STRIDE Learning Center offers screenings, developmental evaluations, and program development. These services may be provided directly to children or through a consultative manner. All Early Childhood Special Education teachers are certified by the Wyoming Department of Education and annually receive numerous hours of continuing education.
Speech and Language
Speech and Language Therapy services are provided for children with communication delays, swallowing disorders, or with difficulties in using the muscles in or around the mouth. The Speech and Language Program at STRIDE Learning Center provides screenings, developmental evaluations, and therapy to children who demonstrate delays in the acquisition of speech and language skills. Oral motor and augmentative communication assessments and treatment plans are also provided. All STRIDE Learning Center pediatric speech pathologists have a minimum of a Master's Degree.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy services relate to self-help skills; eye-hand coordination; adaptive behavior and play; and sensory, motor, and postural development. The Occupational Therapy Program at STRIDE Learning Center provides screenings, developmental evaluations and therapy to children who demonstrate delays in the above areas. Services are designed to foster success in the educational environment and may be provided either directly or through consultation. All STRIDE Learning Center pediatric occupational therapists are registered and are trained to assess adaptive equipment such as switches and computers.
Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy is designed to prevent or lessen movement difficulties and related functional problems. The Physical Therapy Program at STRIDE Learning Center provides screenings, evaluations (including adaptive equipment assessments), and therapy to children who demonstrate delays in the above areas. All STRIDE Learning Center pediatric physical therapists and physical therapy assistants are licensed.