Assistive Technology (AT) describes any device or adaptation that helps increase the independence and functioning of a child with delays and disabilities so they can participate with their peers. AT includes items that help with communication, movement, positioning, play and learning. Although it has the word “technology” in it, AT can include using simple, everyday materials, like popsicle sticks attached to the pages of a book, to create an adaptation for a child with a delay or disability. The terms AT and adaptive equipment are often used interchangeably.
The time commitment varies based on what child care program staff are seeking. The initial training is 90 minutes; after that, it is up to each program to determine what they need in terms of support.
Yes, the online trainings are completed through PDIS, and you will get credit for their completion.
If you are a license-exempt family, friend, or neighbor (FFN) caregiver in Colorado, we encourage you to participate in the Introduction to Universal Design course available at no cost on the Office of Early Childhood’s Professional Development Information System (PDIS), along with our other professional development options. You can also explore additional resources on our website!
Project Include and Colorado Early Learning were previously-funded opportunities for licensed childcare providers to learn about supporting children with delays or disabilities. Adapt to Impact has replaced these programs and is offering additional resources.
You can request up to five items from our loan library. However, we would strongly recommend you start with just a few items the first time. All loan periods last six weeks, with renewals available upon request (and depending on availability).
Yes, only licensed Colorado childcare programs are eligible to participate.
You can explore our website to find more resources, and you can view the UDL Guidlines from CAST.
All resources offered through the project are available to licensed childcare centers and preschools. The program is designed for childcare providers in homes, centers, and preschools, working directly in childcare settings. Providers only need to fill out an Interest Form to get started!
No, it does not cover information about screenings nor evaluations, but we encourage you to contact child find (CDE) for this support. However, we do provide support for childcare programs that have children who have been identified or are suspected of having a delay or disability and programs that want to be better prepared to support children with a disability.
Families will have access to all the information available on our website. Resources will continue to be added over the course of the project and will include the following and so much more:
Our training modules, available through PDIS, which include topics such as Introduction to Universal Design, Communication and Early Literacy, Behavior and Cognition, Hearing and Vision, and more!
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