Family Support programs consist of Early Intervention, Family Matters, Child and Family Connections, and Respite. These programs have been developed to help keep families together and to provide information and services that are important in raising children with disabilities. Family Support programs depend on the collaboration of families and staff to determine needed services.
Early Intervention - Birth to Three Services
The Early Intervention Birth to Three Services are designed to meet the needs of children with delays or disabilities or at high risk of delays and their families. Staff help family members understand the special needs of their child; learn effective child development and behavior management skills; and access the support which families identify as a need.
All Babies Can - Prevention Initiative
The All Babies Can (ABC) program is a home-teaching service available to families experiencing circumstances which may affect their child's success in school. Children under three years of age are provided developmentally appropriate activities and their parents are given information on Early Childhood Development, nutrition, health and safety.
A.P.P.L.E. - Parental Education
A.P.P.L.E. (All Parents Provide Learning Everyday) is designed to provide families of preschool children information to increase their parenting skills and their understanding of normal Early Childhood Development.
Family Support Program
The Family Support Program offers support services to families who have a child with special needs in a 26 county area of Central and Southern Illinois. Families receive help with locating and obtaining needed services such as educational, financial assistance, vocational opportunities, respite, leisure, counseling, family support groups, therapeutic services, and advocacy.
Child and Family Connections
Child & Family Connections is a statewide system that has been established to ensure that all referrals of children under the age of three, to the Early Intervention System, receive a timely response in a prompt, professional, and family-centered manner.
Respite Care
The Respite Program provides parents with short term relief and relaxation time away from their child/adult family member with a disability. The trained Respite Provider will provide care in the family's home or in the community.
Kids on the Block
The Kids on The Block puppet program is offered to Effingham County School Districts to promote awareness of children with disabilities. The program is targeted for second and third graders and is offered free of charge.
Summer Day Camp
ARC Community Support Systems' Summer Day Camps are offered to Effingham and Richland County children who are enrolled in special education classes.
