Inclusion Spotlight July, 2022

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Outstanding Practices in Inclusion Overview Webinar August 23, 2022

Does your program implement high quality inclusive practices? Are you ready to be recognized for creating a culture of inclusion?   If you answered to those questions, you will want to consider applying for the Outstanding Practices in Inclusion recognition. Early CHOICES, as the Illinois State Board of Education Inclusion Initiative, along with the Early Childhood LRE Stakeholders Consortium administer the recognition. Join us for our August 23, 2022 webinar at 9 AM to learn who qualifies, how to apply and what the process involves. Registration is now open.

Taking Your Program to the Next Level

Successful planning for high quality inclusion takes time and collaboration. We have put together a four-part series to connect you with other leaders, resources and fresh ways to address challenges and leverage opportunities. The first 10 registrants will receive a copy The Preschool Inclusion Toolbox . Grab your spot now! Registration is now open.

Moving the Needle for High Quality Inclusion and Access to Infant & Toddler Child Care

Infant Toddler Child Care Roadmap   The Infant and Toddler Child Care Roadmap includes a review of recent and relevant literature on infant and toddler child care, a scan of relevant policies and practices in Illinois and other states, and a summary of findings from engagement with Illinois’ child care field through focus groups and surveys. Input received from community conversations was integrated into this report which details the project’s findings and recommendations for increasing access to infant and toddler child care in Illinois. For more information: https://www.startearly.org/resource/infant-toddler-child-care-roadmap/

Recommendations to Promote High Quality Inclusion for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities

We are all familiar with the current challenges in early care in education from low enrollment to staff shortages. However, this is also a time of opportunity with additional funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. A new article highlights the many opportunities to expand and improve access for children with developmental delays and disabilities in Early Intervention and Early Childhood.  Read the article from the June 15, 2022 Volume 42 Supplement of the Zero to Three Journal to learn more.

Continuing Opportunities to Join Birth to 5 Regional Family Councils !

‌ Please share this information in your networks! Birth to Five Illinois is looking for a diverse group of parents/family members caring for a child under the age of 8 who are passionate about creating more opportunities for young children and families in your region. They are looking for a wide range of voices on the Family Councils, including: Families that live across the region, especially areas that have been under-resourced Families that represent the racial diversity of the region Families with at least one child age eight and under, including those who have used early childhood services and those who have not Families can apply to be on their regional family council by completing this Interest Form If families would like any assistance in completing the application, they can contact us at Early CHOICES or Birth to Five Illinois Learn More Here

Upcoming Conferences- Registration Open

Integrating Research and Practice in Early Childhood Intervention: A Joint Conference of ISEI & DEC September 27-30, 2022 Chicago Illinois REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Family Waivers & Scholarships Are Now Available Illinois AEYC Growing Futures Conference October 13-15, 2022 IN PERSON at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, Springfield, IL Keynote Session Dan Gartrel: Beyond Discipline to Guidance REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Looking for more Professional Development?

The Illinois State Board of Education hosts a Professional Development Calendar Early CHOICES, Illinois STAR NET and Early Childhood Professional Learning all post their events on this calendar. The calendar allows users to sort by topic. Just chose Early Childhood to see all the wonderful opportunities for professional learning for early childhood professionals in Illinois.

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out these sites for on demand learning opportunities STAR NET (look for On Demand list upper right hand corner) Early Intervention Training Program at the University of Illinois Early CHOICES (look for Early Childhood Outcomes, Educational Environments, Inclusion Policy Modules and Understanding Inclusion)

Contact us with questions or inquiries into targeted technical assistance for your early care and education program at [email protected]