Good Start expands program options for preschoolers with special needs. By providing support to staff of many different early childhood settings, Good Start makes it easier for all children to be included in community preschool and childcare settings.
What services and supports are offered by Good Start?
Training for staff of public and private early childhood programs in which children with special needs are enrolled.
- Information, ongoing support and workshops for families involved in Good Start and for parents considering enrolling their preschoolers with special needs in a community setting.
- Consultation and materials for early childhood programs participating in Good Start.
- Training and support for special education staff in local school districts who would like to expand their roles as consultants to staff of early childhood programs in the community.
Who may participate in Good Start?
- Children with special needs who are between three and five years of age and live within one of the following school districts: Ann Arbor, Dexter, Chelsea, Lincoln, Manchester, Milan, Saline, Whitmore Lake, Willow Run, and Ypsilanti.
- As many children as possible will be included in Good Start, but the amount of funding is limited.
- Staff of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District serves as the administration and program specialists for this project. Additional contracted service providers supply assessment information when needed.
Who may make a referral to Good Start?
- Any family or early childhood program (child care center or home, private preschool, co-op nursery, Head Start, community education preschool, Michigan School Readiness Program, etc.) interested in Good Start may call Marianne Miller at 734-994-8100 x 1524.
Early On Michigan
Early On Michigan is a system designed to coordinate early intervention and other services for families who have children (ages 0 - 3) experiencing developmental delays or who have disabilities or special needs.
Early On Michigan web sitehttp://www.earlyonmichigan.org/
Early On Washtenaw web site
Michigan 4C Association (Community Coordinated Child Care)
The Michigan 4C Association promotes and advocates for the optimal care and development of Michigan's children and families through the statewide Community Coordinated Child Care (4C) Network.
Michigan 4C Association web sitehttp://www.mi4c.org/
First Steps Washtenaw
supports parents and families in the preparation of their children for school by coordinating and delivering early childhood development and community services. First Steps Washtenaw is open to all families, with children ages 0 - 5, who live in Washtenaw County.
First Steps Washtenaw web site