Early Learning Intervention
Lifelong learning starts the moment we are born. The first six years of our lives are a time of unparalleled discovery. We learn about ourselves and the world around us. Our personalities take shape and we begin to lay the foundation of knowledge that will support us as we enter the education system.
Goals
- Develop speech, language and motor skills
- Learn to share, co-operate, be responsible, problem-solve, express themselves and make decisions
- Develop positive attitudes toward learning
- Develop a sense of confidence and self-esteem
- Increase independence in an educational setting
Benefits
- Improved ability to socialize and play with others
- Increased comfort interacting with other children and families from a variety of backgrounds and cultures
Program Unit Funding
What is Program Unit Funding (PUF)?
- Additional funding provided by Alberta Education to approved Early Childhood Services operators
- Provided for eligible children with severe disabilities between the ages of 2.8 and 6 years
- Funding support is available for a maximum of 3 consecutive years
- Support for children who require additional services beyond that offered in a regular program
- Requires that an Individualized Program Plan be developed each year the child accesses PUF support
When should I be concerned about my child's development and what should I do?
You may wish to make an appointment with a pediatrician, health-care professional, speech-language pathologist or psychologist if your child experiences any of the following:
- Has a physical disability or medical condition
- Is very hard to understand, especially to people who are not familiar to him/her
- Ignores your voice when you are not facing one another
- Isn't learning new words as quickly as most children his/her age
- Gets very close to things he wants to see
- Bumps into things
- Has difficulty holding and using a cup, spoon, or toys
- Seems to be in his/her "own little world" and doesn't interact or play with others
- Is unusually aggressive with brothers or sisters, pets, or peers
- Often seems to forget what he/she has been asked to do
- Is unable to sit still, even for short periods of time
*All children show these behaviours some of the time. Persistent behaviours combined with other concerns would be advisable to investigate further. Your child MAY qualify for PUF or mild/moderate services in the educational system.
What disabilities could potentially qualify for PUF support?
- Speech and language delays
- Vision impairment
- Hearing impairment
- Severe behavioural or emotional difficulties
- Physical disability
- Medical concerns
- Significant developmental delays
Complete the Kindergarten Readiness Checklist below if you believe your child may require additional supports. When completed it can be brought in to your local school and left for the Inclusion Coach. They will contact you with further information and you can also access further resources as listed to the right.
