What Is The Early Language Intervention Program?
The Early Language Intervention Program (ELIP) works with the child and parents to teach language facilitating strategies that can be applied not only at the clinic but at home. The program is based on the theory that children learn language in their day to day interactions with people in their environments.
What Is A Language Delay?
A child’s communication is considered delayed when speech and/or language skills are noticeably behind his or her peers. There can be many reasons for a delay in speech and language, however, signs may include:
- Delayed development of nonverbal communication – pointing and other gestures
- Delayed use of words
- Difficulty understanding what is said
- Difficulty following directions
- Immature/inappropriate grammatical form
- Difficulty expressing ideas
- Limited vocabulary
- Incorrect use of words
- Inappropriate social interaction
What Is Early Intervention?
Children grow and develop at their own rate. Although some children walk and talk early, others may be delayed in learning certain
skills. If you have any concerns about your child’s development, the earlier you seek help, the better. Early intervention is for children
ages birth to 3 and their families, it may continue until a child is age 5. Early intervention is different for each child and family depending
on the child’s needs and the family’s priorities. The most important step is to start early.
Families and professionals, including audiologists and speech-language pathologists, are part of an early intervention team. They
help children develop skills such as
- Cognitive skills (thinking, learning, problem-solving);
- Communication skills (gesturing, talking, listening, understanding);
- Physical and sensory skills (crawling, walking, climbing, seeing, hearing);
- Social–emotional skills (playing, understanding feelings, making friends); and
- Adaptive or self-help skills (eating, bathing, dressing).
How Can Get Early Intervention Services For The Child?
Health care professionals, parents, child care staff, teachers, and social service workers are just some of the people who can refer an infant or toddler for early intervention. If someone is concerned about their child’s development, they may contact your local early intervention program directly to ask for an evaluation. Families do not have to wait for a referral from professionals.
Who Is The Program Designed For?
The Program is designed for toddlers and preschoolers who have demonstrated a language delay and is also effective for parents who are looking for ways to interact with their child every day to help encourage their language development.
Why Use ELIP?
“NAARAAYAN” recognizes the importance of parents and caregivers in their child’s language development. Children who have delayed language development need to receive intervention as early as possible to prevent possible long-lasting negative consequences (social, emotional, and educational). Therefore, it is important to train parents to use language facilitative strategies during daily play and routine activities to foster spontaneous interactions. Through training, parents learn skills they can use in their home environment to improve their child’s communication abilities.