Early Intervention in the Community - Enhancing the Development of Children and their Families
The “Early Intervention in the Community” programme is implemented since 2016 by the Early Intervention Unit of the Theotokos Foundation, in collaboration with the Municipalities of Ilion and Agion Anargyroi/Kamateros. Its aim is prevention through the detection, identification and early intervention of children aged 1.5 to 4 years old at risk of developmental difficulties attending local day care centres.
Through the program, more than 2,500 children and their families have received assessment and counseling services from specialized therapists. The programme focuses on improving children’s development, empowering families, supporting teachers and integrating children into the school and social environment.
Methodology and Phases
The approach includes 7 modules:
- Developmental vigilance: parents, teachers and health professionals.
- Detection: use of valid screening tools to detect developmental difficulties.
- Identification: assessment of children in day care centres.
- Consultation with parents: Discussing results with parents.
- Diagnosis: providing a formal assessment by a multidisciplinary team.
- Intervention: individual or group therapy sessions.
- Control of the outcome of the Early Intervention.
Innovation
The programme is distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach, the use of modern detection and assessment tools, and the emphasis on prevention and early intervention. In addition, it is provided free of charge by the Early Intervention Unit of the Theotokos Foundation, ensuring equal access to families regardless of their socio-economic background.
Long-term objective
To promote social inclusion and reduce the impact of delayed early intervention.