Disabilities

Head Start/Early Head Start programs are required to make 10% of their enrollment opportunities available to children with disabilities. The program provides services in an inclusive setting where all children learn together and supports, special services, supplements and individualization is provided for all children as needed.

We provide services to children with a variety of special needs, including:

Children with disabilities receive all comprehensive services provided by Head Start/Early Head Start and in addition the children and their families receive support services individualized for their special needs.These services are referred to as Early Intervention Services.

Early Head Start children are provided services in their home. Head Start children receive services in all program options, center, home base, and child care. In addition the program had a specialized classroom (LEAP classroom) available for children with autism/PDD. This classroom is in collaboration with the Intermediate Unit 1. We also have a special home base area the services children with more severe special needs that also attend the Child Alert program of the Intermediate Unit 1.

Early Head Start works cooperatively with the Fayette County MH/MR Program that provides Early Intervention services to children birth to 3 years of age. Head Start works cooperatively with the Intermediate Unit 1 that provides Early Intervention services to children 3 to 5 years of age. After receiving the developmental, behavioral, and sensory screenings, children in need are referred to the appropriate agency for an evaluation after obtaining written permission from the parent(s). If the child qualifies for services an individual plan is written for the child and their family.

The program provides materials (books, puppets, toys, pictures) that show different types of disabilities. There are disability awareness kits that are shared with the classrooms with other special materials and lessons that staff can use with their children.

The program also participates in the Local Interagency Coordinating Council (LICC). The LICC is a group that offers the opportunity for parents and professionals to meet and discuss Early Intervention services. The LICC provides training for parents and special events for families. The program also participates in the Parents of Autistic Kids (PAK) group. This is an advocacy group for parents of autistic children.

For more information regarding services to children with disabilities, contact Susan Gallagher or Antoinette Franks at 724-430-4818.