Western Panhandle News
Fall 2016
As your Family Resource Specialist
(FRS), I have served with the
Early Steps Program for twenty
three years and know the
importance of family involvement
in the development and care
of your child.
I have experienced the joys and
concerns that go with caring for a
child with special needs.
I am here to provide you with
information and opportunities
for you and your child.
I can also provide you with
community resources,
support groups, steps for
transition to Pre-K and assist
with understanding
Early Steps services.
Please call or email for any
assistance.
I am here for you at
your request.
Your Contact for Resources,
Support or to
RSVP for Events:
Irma Cofield
Family Resource Specialist
Phone: 850-416-6789
Email:
[email protected]
Early Steps Success Story...22 years later.
Thursday’s child has far to go….
On Thursday, Oct. 14, 1993, my water
This
is bittersweet
for son
my was
famibroke.August
On Thursday,
Dec 2, our
born.
His
due
date
was
supposed
to
be
ly as we conclude our services with the
Thursday,
March
3, 1994.I reflect
He was back
born at
Early
Steps
Program.
27 weeks,
2lbs,locate
1.3 oz.this
(and
yes,
and
regretweighing
that I didn't
prowhen your
babyearlier.
is this tiny,
the 1.3 oz.
gram
months
My toddler
Sumreally matters!)
He hadwas
incredibly
mer's
improvement
so greatweak
that I
lungs even
by preemie
standards, due
the
cannot
imagine
the progression
if Itohad
lack
of
amniotic
fluid.
He
also
had
a
rather
the opportunity to contact them soonsignificant
brain
lostvolumes
one kidney
er. This, in
fact,bleed,
speaks
ondue
the
to
a
blood
clot,
and
a
list
of
other
concerns
importance of early intervention. 6
that
was ago,
overwhelming.
course,
months
my familyOf
was
lost, he
worryspent
his
first
weeks
in
ICN.
(Back
ing about Summer's development.then
Herit
was
“Intensive
Care
Nursery”,
instead
speech issues were severe, the melt-of
NICU).
Afterfrequent,
thirteen weeks
downs were
she he was
released
to
go
home.
True
form
was a
was unnaturally clumsy, to
and
heritsensoThursday, March 10th. He came home on a
ry issues affected her life. I dreaded
heart monitor that went off constantly.
taking her anywhere in public; every
Many were false alarms, but there were also
day was unpredictable. After her pediasome close calls. The second night he was
trician's referral to a speech therapist
home, he quit breathing while I was feeding
wasn't covered by our insurance, I
him. As a preemie, he struggled with the
found
the Early Steps Program by re“suck, swallow, breathe” sequence that
searching
developmental delays
comes naturally for most babies, which
online.
Much
to my
relief, II was
discovered
resulted in repeated
choking.
so
that
the
Early
Steps
Program
panicked that I didn’t think to lieassesses
him flat
behavioral
sensory
issues
and open hisand
airway.
By the
timein
theaddition.
EMT’s arrived, I had figured it out but was
Itotally
had early
suspicions
traumatized!
Howthat
wasSummer
I going tohad
an
uncommon
speech
disorder
known
take care of this tiny, beautiful baby
boy?
many hours in our home working with my
son and myself. By this time, trying to feed
him was
a traumatic
experience,
which
few
months
of close
observation
andI
dreaded
and
often
cried
through.
Eleanor
testing, Mary Lou, Summer's speech
was
a life-line!
Besides
with his
therapist
through
Earlyworking
Steps, concognitive
and
physical
development,
shea
firmed my suspicions. Summer has
helped
me
mix
cereal
with
the
milk
until
we
long journey ahead with CAS, but early
found
a
consistency
that
he
was
able
to
intervention is crucial for a good progswallow
most Lou
of the(speech),
time. SheBridgette
also coached
nosis. Mary
me
on
feeding
techniques.
Most
all, she
(developmental teacher), Sabreof(PT),
gave me confidence. I learned to relax and
and Elizabeth (OT) have made an imenjoy this beautiful experience! As the
pact in her life...and mine. With their
months went on, Brandon was evaluated on
intervention, Summer has gone from
a regular basis. In a very short time, his
babbling to speaking 2 to 3 words at a
delays were overcome and to everyone’s
time. Her meltdowns decreased signifisurprise, he was in fact, excelling! I
cantly
as her eye contact and communiremember Eleanor saying she would
cation
through signs and clearer words
probably have to dismiss him soon because
came
forth.
It's been
hardthat
work
for her
she couldn’t show
a deficit
needed
Summer
but
she
enjoys
her
therapy
seshelp. While this was, of course, amazing
sions
and
loves
the
carnews, I just wanted to tell her she couldn’t
ing
she
works
with.
go!!professionals
How could I do
this
without
her?We
True
hope
to
see
additionto form, she restored my confidence and
al
improvement
with
Summer
wewe
soon
we were on our
own.
Since as
then,
begin
a new
chapter
Pre-KD
have been
blessed
withwith
manythe
amazing
program,
in caregivers,
which Early
teachers and
butSteps
Early has
Stepsguided
us
to.
headed us down the path.
It's crucial for parents to understand if
My
has gone
He
theyThursday’s
have any child
concerns
withfar.
their
graduated
from
the
University
of
Florida
child's development, don't delay. No
this
a degree
Cognitive
and
childspring
is toowith
young
to beinhelped!
My
Behavioral
Neuroscience.
He
is
working
on
as Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) family will be forever touched by Early
a
grant
with
the
National
Institute
for
Enter
Early Steps.
Of course,
after hours
of research.
CASmy
is son,
a very
Steps. Because of them, I felt compelled
up for Grad by
School.
Brandon,
had and
already
been identified
as an Health
challenging
complicated
speech
to givewhile
backhe
to saves
my community
orHe
is
happy,
healthy,
and
loving.
at
risk baby,
but I had that
no idea
how itmuch
disorder
in children
makes
diffi- ganizing the first Walk for Childhood
comfort
the programtowould
bring toproduce
me and Apraxia of Speech in the Panhandle.
cult or impossible
accurately
There is no telling how far he’ll go…
my
family.
We
had
already
been
assessed
sounds, syllaThis walk will
by
Lane
blesMs.
and/or
raise funds for the
and
others,
and
words
despite
we
werea good
having
Thanks
assigned
to Ms.
understanding
for the
Eleanor. She
of langreat
came once a
guage. After a
week and spent
NICU
To
Grad
School….
start,
Early
Steps!!!
Childhood Apraxia
Escambia
Join in our Playgroups and Workshops on various subjects:
Please Call or Email Irma to RSVP for your place & childcare.
Childcare is provided in playgroup setting during the learning session.
Potty Training
Organization Workshop
Let’s Begin! It may take Time!
Getting organized is the best way
Signs of Readiness
to be prepared in the decision making for
Overcoming Difficulties
Training Chart
your child’s future needs!
Join in to receive instructions and a notebook
to get your child’s developmental and
Instructions for Success!
medical records organized.
Presenter: Elaine Shamloo,
Presented by Irma Cofield,
Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist
Family Resource Specialist
Friday, Oct.14th 10:00 -11:00am
Pearl Nelson Center
916 E. Fairfield Dr. Pensacola
Playgroup at the Imagination Station
Oct.4, Nov.1, Dec.6 9:30 to 11:30am:
351 Cedar St. Pensacola
Located at the Blue Wahoo Stadium-Maritime Park
We have reserved the center for
Early Steps families only!
The Imagination Station contains books, educational
toys, touch screen technology and a chance for
children and adults to enjoy playing and learning
together. This activity center is like no other in this
region and is unique to the Public Broadcast Service
system nationwide.
Friday, Nov. 4th 10:00-11:00am
Pearl Nelson Center
916 E. Fairfield Dr. Pensacola
Transition to Pre-K
Come to receive step by step
instructions for the Exceptional Student Education
(ESE) Pre-K enrollment process.
This workshop is great for parents of children
that are getting ready for Pre-K transition.
There will be a time for your questions and answers
about the transition from Early Steps to Pre-K.
Presented by
Marlene McCulley, Social Worker and
Angela Barnes, ESE Pre-K Coordinator for
Escambia County School System
Friday, Dec. 2nd
10:00 - 11:00AM
Pearl Nelson Center
916 E. Fairfield Dr.
Pensacola
Santa Rosa & Okaloosa & Walton
Please Call or Email Irma to RSVP for your place & childcare.
Dates may change due to attendance!
Behavior Workshop
Join in to review and learn some new strategies
for helping your child with challenging behavior.
If a child doesn’t know how to read, we teach.
If a child doesn’t know how to multiply, we teach.
If a child doesn’t know how to drive, we teach.
If a child doesn’t know how to behave,
We…teach? We…punish?
Why can’t we finish this sentence as easily as we
did the others?
Written by Tom Herner
Play Group Opportunities at the
Ace of Fort Walton Beach
Join in for a fun and safe in-door play
time for your child and for you to meet
other parents.
There are all kinds of bouncing areas,
climbing spots, places to run, and jump
with toddler sized gymnastic equipment.
Please RSVP to Irma for your place!
Entry fee will be paid by Family
Involvement Funds.
Presenter: Jan Young, Former ESE Pre-K Teacher
and Child Find Specialist
Thursday, October 20th
6:00 - 7:30PM
Children’s Center
343 Holmes Blvd. NW, FWB
Tuesday, Oct. 11th
Tuesday, Nov. 15th
Tuesday, Dec. 13th
10:30 – 11:30am
33 Tupelo Ave. SE
Ft. Walton, FL 32548
Santa Rosa—Play Group Opportunities at the Fun Plex
Join in for a fun and safe in-door play time for your child and for you to meet other
parents. There are all kinds of climbing spots, places to run, and jump with
toddler sized gymnastic equipment.
You must RSVP to Irma for your place! Entry fee will be paid by Family Involvement Funds.
Oct.19th, Nov.16th, Dec.14th, 10:30 – 11:30am
3123 Gulf Breeze Pkwy. Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Support Connections
ESCAMBIA & SANTA ROSA COUNTIES
Apraxia Support: Jennifer Boswell 850-398-6758
or [email protected]
Autism Pensacola Inc.: 850-434-7171
Website: www.autismpensacola.org Email: [email protected]
22Q.11Deletion and other syndromes linked to 22Q: Angela Helvey
520-444-9498 or [email protected]
Down Syndrome Society of NW Florida: Amy 850-292-4796 [email protected],
Penny 850-276-9990 [email protected] or Melissa 850-390-5786
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-Syndrome-Society-of-West-Florida
Emerald Coast Hands and Voices: Parents of children that are deaf or hard of hearing
Kay Wise [email protected]
Epilepsy Parent Support Group: 850-433-1395 Website: www.efof.org
Facing Forward: Parents of children with facial abnormalities; Frances Shell 850-476-2701
Pensacola Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and other Relatives: Call 850-432-1475
to confirm meeting date & location, child care provided, Reservations requested!
Mended Little Hearts / Hearts of Hope: Parents of children with heart conditions:
Heather [email protected] or (850) 972-8160.
Pensacola Exceptional Parents Connection: Parents of Children with various exceptionalities:
including Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Spina Bifida and intellectual
and developmental disabilities. Angela [email protected] or 384-7330 or
Amy [email protected] or 393-8808
Pensacola Parents of Multiples: Parents of twins, triplets and multiple births:
[email protected] or 850-449-4208
Face-book at https://www.facebook.com/pensacolamultiples
Preemies of Pensacola on Facebook: Facebook.com/Groups/PreemiesOfPensacola
To connect with other families from the NICU at Children’s Hospital-Sacred Heart
OKALOOSA & WALTON COUNTIES
Apraxia Support: Contact Jennifer Boswell 850-398-6758
[email protected]
Autism Society of the Emerald Coast: Executive Director, Brad Burnette
(850) 496-3062 or [email protected] Website: www.ASECFL.com
22Q.11Deletion and other syndromes linked to 22Q: Contact Angela Helvey
520-444-9498 or [email protected]
Epilepsy Parent Support Group: 850-433-1395 Website: www.efof.org
If you are unable to make connection with group contact, call Irma,
your Family Resource Specialist, for assistance at 850-416-6789 or [email protected]
Early Steps serving Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton Counties
5150 Bayou Blvd. POB Suite 1-N, Pensacola, FL 32503
Contact information:
Family Resource Specialist, Irma Cofield # 850-416-6789
[email protected]
Program Manager, Debbie Goldberg # 850-416-6476
[email protected]
NEW SUPPORT GROUP : PENSACOLA EXCEPTIONAL PARENT CONNECNTION (PEPC)
Open to Parents of Children with varying exceptionalities including
Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Spina Bifida and intellectual disabilities.
Our mission is to enhance the lives of children with varying exceptionalities by providing resources,
education and emotional support to families.
Join in for positive support and information sharing…
Meetings are the last Thursday of end month, 6:00-7:30PM
ARC–Gateway-Pollak Training Center 1000 East Fairfield Dr. Pensacola, FL 32503
Contact Amy [email protected] 393-8808 or Angela [email protected] 384-7330
RESOURCES & WEBSITES:
http://www.floridadisaster.org/citizen_emergency_info.htm
http://www.floridahealth.gov/AlternateSites/CMS-Kids/families/early_steps/
http://www.zerotothree.org/military
http://www.elcescambia.org/ParentResources.aspx
http://www.elcsantarosa.com/ccrrform.htm - Childcare Services for Santa Rosa County
http://kidshealth.org/parent/
http://www.zerotothree.org/child-development/
http://www.zerotothree.org/child-development/play/tips-and-tools-play.html
http://www.floridadisaster.org/citizen_emergency_info.htm
http://www.fdlrswestgate.org - Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resource System
http://www.211nwfl.org Community Resources or Call 2-1-1
http://www.pamf.org/children/common/development/
http://www.pamfblog.org/2012/05/tips-for-successful-potty-training/
http://www.pamfblog.org/2013/11/toddler-tantrums/
http://www.pamfblog.org/2015/04/early-child-development/
http://www.pamfblog.org/2014/12/child-speech-development/
http://www.playingwithwords365.com/how-to-help-your-child-talk-the-ebook/
http://www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org/
CIL Disability Resource Center- FAAST– Florida Alliance Assistive Services Technology: Assistive Technology
is any equipment or service used to increase, maintain or improve your child’s capability to participate actively in play/work,
recreation or daily living. Call or Visit the center to check out the available toys, devices and equipment. Contact FAAST for
more information at 850-595-5566; [email protected] webpage www.cil-drc.org