CLARION, Pa. — The Riverview Intermediate Unit 6 Early Intervention (EI) staff, students, and family participated in the Clarion Autumn Leaf Kiddies Parade on September 27, to encourage families to Discover RIU6 and the EI Preschool Program.

The Early Intervention Preschool Program serves children ages three to five years old who have developmental delays or disabilities. The program and related services are provided to the child at no cost to their families.

Early Intervention services can change a child’s developmental trajectory and improve outcomes for children, their families, and communities. The overarching goal of the program is to reduce the likelihood that children will need special education services and/or to reduce the level of supports needed when they become of school-age.

Riverview Intermediate Unit’s Early Intervention staff serves 15 classroom locations in Clarion, Jefferson, Forest and Venango Counties. The staff provides students with many services including:

• Assistive technology
• Audiology and hearing
• Speech and language
• Nutrition
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Psychological

Services, resources, and training may also be provided for a family to address the needs and priorities of the child. These services are provided to help family members understand the special needs of their child and how to enhance his or her development.

Families are provided assistance in finding community-based resources, services and supports; they also build relationships with service agencies and develop trust with the education and service providers.

For more information on how to receive a free Early Intervention Preschool Program screening, visit the website at www.riu6.org or call 814-226-7103.