Human Development Center

HDC News

Louisiana LEND Scholar Creates Family-Friendly Video to Demystify Early Childhood Intervention

 

2024-25 Louisiana LEND Scholar and LASARD Facilitator Constance Alphonse created a video designed to help families better understand the early intervention assessment process.

The video explains what happens during an early childhood intervention assessment, what best practices look like, and what families should expect. It emphasizes the critical role families play in the process, underscoring that assessments work best when families are informed, involved, and empowered.

“You may be very worried if you, your child’s doctor, or your child’s babysitter notices that your child is not growing or learning as expected,” the video begins. “It is important to get help for your child and your family as early as possible because early intervention services can make a huge difference in helping your child meet developmental milestones.”

While created with families in mind, the video is also a valuable resource for early childhood staff, offering guidance on how to strengthen family-centered practices. After watching, families and providers alike will walk away with a clearer understanding of:

  • The early childhood intervention assessment process
  • Three key indicators of effective assessment
  • The family’s vital role throughout the process

Constance hopes the video will “take the mystery out of assessment” and give families the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate early intervention. Ultimately, her project reflects the LEND program’s commitment to preparing future leaders who advance inclusion in developmental services.

Constance’s video is the final project for her participation with the Early Childhood Intervention Personnel Center (ECIPC). ECIPC is dedicated to strengthening and designing responsive early childcare systems that reflect both practitioner and family perspectives. Constance’s project aligns with that mission by making the complex world of early intervention approachable and understandable for families.

 

Early Childhood Intervention Resources

 

About LEND

The Louisiana Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LA LEND) is a nine-month (300+ hour) interdisciplinary leadership training program for graduate students, individuals with developmental or neurodevelopmental disabilities, parents/guardians, and practicing professionals.