Transitions and Challenges: Toddlers and Preschoolers

Getting a foothold for success with early intervention

Toddlers and preschool-aged children with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) or Prader-Willi Syndrome, frequently receive some of their first early intervention support while in or just before entering the education system. Navigating your options for the first time can seem confusing. Here are some special needs resources for parents and caregivers to help you get started.

Help Me Connect

Caring for a child under eight? Help Me Connect offers disability navigator services. They also refer families with children (birth to eight years old) to services in their local communities that support healthy child development and family well-being.

LBSA’s Family Navigation Services Program

Family Navigation Services from Laura Baker Services Association can help you prepare for next steps and assist in finding services that fit your needs. We offer a wide variety of disability support services, including local special needs resources, Individualized Education Program (IEP) help, learning disability support, and more.

Family Voices of Minnesota

Family Voices of Minnesota offers parent-to-parent networking opportunities as well as parent training, insurance information and peer support. Being well-connected with other parents can increase your confidence in caring for your child and family as well as decrease emergency room visits.

Primary Care and Milestone Tracker

Consult your primary care physician on what considerations should be kept in mind for your child and what information to provide during a well-child checkup. Download the CDC Milestone Tracker App to keep well-documented and concise records of your child’s milestones to show to physicians.

Gillette Children’s Parent Resources and Support Page

Gillette Children’s Parent Resources and Support Page provides a curated list of resources to help you connect with other parents as well community forums you can join.

PACER Center

Getting ready for kindergarten? The PACER Center offers information and resources to support you and your child’s educational journey – from working with your IEP team to learning how to prepare your child for a positive transition.

More Information and Support

If you’re interested in a FREE consultation with our Lead Family Navigator to see what services and supports are available to you, you can get in touch right now.

Family Navigation Services