Introduction and Philosophy

Early Intervention services to children and their families has been recognized by the California Early Intervention Services Act as an investment in the future that benefits the society as a whole. These services should be provided in the context of the family, in partnership with the parents by assisting with decisions, priorities and directions of intervention for developmental differences. We help children when we strengthen families. Each family situation and infant needs are unique. 
The following are objectives and essential components of this program:

1. Strive to understand the needs of the child in the context of the family. Enhance development of communication, fine motor, gross motor, cognition, self-help and social skills and obtain measurable growth in each child’s development that reflects his or her fullest potential.

2. Form a professional-parent partnership to work toward expansion of existing skill and attainment of higher skills. Acknowledge parents expertise regarding their children’s unique needs and styles of learning.

3. Actively involve parents in their child’s learning by demonstrating and providing activities, training, equipment, education and support to the family.

4. Help caregivers and parents recognize and respond to their child’s unique characteristics and interpersonal communication.

5. Provide a trans-disciplinary team that utilizes a wide knowledge base from early childhood, special education, nursing, counseling, physical and occupational therapy and speech and language therapy.

6. Secure other support services from outside GSA as needed for each family. Be actively involved in formal meetings and in the implementation of the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).

7. Establish communication with other professionals who are serving each family to coordinate services and curriculum.

8. Assist parents in making the transition to other programs as their child’s needs change. Support parents in making choices about future opportunities and programs for their children.

9. Attend in-service training provided for all program staff. Expanding knowledge regarding current research, methods, intervention strategies, curriculum, effective communication and other related areas insure that each family’s unique needs will be met.