Early Intervention Playgroup: Play & Connection
Arlington Heights Memorial Library, Ill.
Innovation Synopsis
The Early Literacy Services Supervisor at the library collaborates with a local pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Early Intervention Advocate to support families with children receiving early intervention services. Families attend a monthly play program at the library; children play with their peers while caregivers can connect and find support.
Challenge/Opportunity
A significant number of children in the United States have developmental delay(s) or disabilities; a smaller percentage receives early intervention services for ages 0-3. This audience has often experienced obstacles to attending library programming, including feelings of stigmatization, barriers due to their disability, or even being asked to not participate in programming due to a child’s behavioral limitations. Caregivers are often isolated from other families that share similar experiences due to health privacy laws. By providing programming and resources that targets this sizeable and often invisible under-served population, families see the library as a welcoming place that addresses their needs.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Early Literacy Services’ Librarian develops play programming that supports children’s developmental growth in areas including cognition, language, gross and fine motor, social and adaptive skills. Activities are accompanied by information on type of play, developmental skills being emphasized, and ideas for extending play. While children play with their peers, caregivers can share experiences and resources in a safe and accepting environment. A pediatric speech-language pathologist who is an Early Intervention Specialist and Evaluator helps facilitate interactions between caregivers and answers basic queries. Caregivers can browse featured library items such as accessible toys and books, and hear about library programs.
Achieved Outcomes
Over the past year, this program has increased from an average of five attendees to 30. Customers often state how appreciative they are that the library provides programming their children can attend "without judgment or expectations." Many customers travel far to attend our library’s free program because it is unique and have asked for recommendations on how to get similar programs in their home libraries. This play-based learning program has now been replicated in at least one other local library. Programming of this type serves as a platform for awareness and advocacy for children with developmental delays and/or disabilities.