The Early Childhood - Home Visiting program, an affiliate of Parents as Teachers, connects families with trained parent educators who provide personalized in-home support to help build caregiver confidence and promote healthy child development. Available to families with children up to age three both with and without disabilities, the program provides practical tools to help children thrive. No diagnosis is needed to begin, and families who qualify for WIC automatically qualify for free services.
Home visits typically occur twice per month, though frequency can be adjusted based on a family’s needs, and include:
● Developmental guidance and learning activities
● Diapers or wipes at every visit
● Monthly books and quarterly age-appropriate toys
● Developmental screenings
● Stress-reduction strategies and parenting support
“Whether you’re curious about milestones, need fresh ideas for learning activities, or just want reassurance that your child is on track, home visits are an excellent resource,” said Amy
Sawyer, Program Manager at Easterseals Midwest.
Parent Educator Tracy Rich has already seen local success: “I’ve been working with a family whose two-year-old was nonverbal when we started home visits,” said Rich. “Within just two months, that child was saying 10 words.”
Autism Services are also available through Easterseals’ Kansas City office, offering individualized support for children and families. Services include professional assessments, therapy (such as Applied Behavior Analysis and occupational therapy), and caregiver training to help improve communication, social skills, and daily routines. Families can also access caregiver coaching, participate in support groups, and receive advocacy support during school IEP meetings. Consultation services and educational presentations are available to help parents and professionals better understand and support individuals with autism.
To request Early Childhood - Home Visiting services, visit: https://www.easterseals.com/midwest/programs-and-services/earlychildhood-services/home-visiting.html
For more information about Autism Services, contact Casey Melancon at casey.melancon@esmw.org or 816-891-2930.
About Easterseals Midwest
Easterseals Midwest is a nonprofit organization leading the way to 100% equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services. Easterseals provides essential services and on-the-ground support to nearly 7,500 people each year across Illinois, Kansas, and Missouri through six divisions: Autism, Community Living, Early Childhood - Home Visiting, Health Home, Employment , and Hearing and Speech Programs. Together, we’re empowering people with disabilities, families, and communities to be full and equal participants in society. To learn more, visit www.easterseals.com/midwest.
