The primary goals of preventive health care and long-term developmental achievement are addressed by a program that integrates medical, therapeutic and research components. It offers an exciting, early learning experience combined with the expertise of specialists in medicine, early childhood education, nutrition and development. Parents and health professionals become partners through a transdisciplinary approach to maintain and enhance optimal health, growth and development in order to achieve each child's maximum potential. This partnership is strengthened by a provision of continuing education for professionals and families. Staff members of the program include a medical director from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Department of Pediatrics, nurses, early childhood specialists, program assistants, a speech language pathologist, director and other specialists in child development.
All care is coordinated with the child's local primary care physician.
A team approach centering around both the family's and the child's needs, is used to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan which directs the services provided to each child. A nutrition consultant is available to assist center staff and parents when needed. Regular assessments will evaluate the child's progress in physical development, awareness, speech and language, self-help skills and social interaction. In addition, regular parent meetings provide information, support and encouragement to parents and caregivers. Born prematurely Born sick or became sick shortly after birth Have conditions known to place them at risk for developmental problems Diagnosed as failing to thrive Exposed to prenatal alcohol or drug use Parents wishing to enroll their children will be asked to complete an application and work with administrative staff to establish eligibility for an appropriate funding source.