Screens can be great for learning and connecting, but too much of them can keep us from moving, exploring, and creating. When we turn off the screens, kids get the chance to play, imagine, and connect with family in real life!

Here are some easy, no-cost ways to have fun together using things you already have at home!

Go Outside

Fresh air makes everything better! Try:

• Blow bubbles (you can make your own with 1 cup water, 2 TB dish soap and 1 TB sugar or corn syrup) and see who can make the biggest one or keep it floating the longest
• Take a walk and hunt for cool rocks, leaves, or bugs. Don’t have time for a walk in the woods? Look for interesting things on the way from the car into Target.
• Hang up a homemade bird feeder (attach a string to a pinecone and smear on some peanut butter) and count how many birds come to visit

Get Crafty

Let creativity take over! You don’t need fancy supplies, just imagination.

• Draw on scrap paper or junk mail. Tell a story with stick figures or try drawing a funny new animal and talk about how it would move and sound
• Roll, squish, and build shapes from homemade playdough (Mix 1 cup flour, ½ cup salt, and ½ cup water. Add a few drops of food coloring if you like.)

Cook Up Some Fun

The kitchen is a great place to learn and laugh together.

• Make mini pizzas using bread, tomato sauce, and cheese
• Stir up a batch of homemade pet treats for your pets (Mix 1 cup whole wheat flour, ½ cup peanut butter, and ¼ cup water. Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.)

Build a Fort

Turn your living room into an adventure zone!

• Stack blankets, pillows and couch cushions to make a cozy reading nook or fort.
• Use big cardboard boxes to build a castle or rocket ship. Add windows, doors, and decorations with markers or stickers.

You know your child best. Start with activities they already enjoy, and sprinkle in something new. The best memories often come from simple moments spent laughing, playing, and being creative together.

Social-Emotional development is how children learn about themselves and how to get along with others.

Social skills help children:

· Make friends

· Share

· Play with others

Emotional skills help children:

· Talk about their feelings

· Notice how they feel

· Calm down when upset

· Understand how others feel

These skills help children know:

· Who they are

· How they feel

· How to be kind

Children start learning these skills from birth and keep learning as they grow. Parents, teachers, and caregivers help by spending time with them, showing love, and teaching ways to handle feelings.

Why These Skills Matter:

When children have strong social and emotional skills, they can:

· Share and take turns

· Be kind and caring

· Stay calm when things are hard

· Feel proud of themselves

· Make and keep friends

· Do well in school

Children who learn these skills early grow up to be confident, caring, and ready to learn. Caring acts— a hug, a smile, or helping a child name a feeling—can make these skills stronger.

Quick Tips for Families:

· Talk about feelings

· Praise effort

· Read books about being kind and emotions

· Show them how to calm down (deep breaths, quiet time)

· Show kindness and patience

When we help children learn about feelings and friendship, we give them skills that last a lifetime.

Have you ever asked yourself, “Should my child be doing this by now?” You are not alone! All parents wonder about that sometimes. Maybe your toddler isn’t talking as much as other kids, or your three-year-old doesn’t listen after you ask them to clean up.

That’s why it helps to understand developmental milestones.

Milestones are the small and big things children learn as they grow like smiling, waving, walking, talking, and playing with others. They aren’t a test or a list to check off. They’re simply guides that show what most children can do at certain ages. When you know about them, parenting can feel less stressful and a lot more fun.

Why milestones matter

1. They help you set fair expectations. It’s easy to expect too much from young children. Maybe you tell your two-year-old, “Put away your shoes, wash your hands, and come sit at the table,” and then get upset when they don’t do it. Most toddlers can only follow one simple direction at a time. When you know that, you can ask in a way that fits what your child can do—and that helps both of you feel more calm and successful.

2. They help you notice the little wins. When you know what is typical for your child’s age, you start to see progress everywhere. Maybe they wave goodbye for the first time or point to a picture they like in a book. Those small moments show your child is growing and learning and they deserve to be celebrated!

3. They help you get help early if needed. All children grow in their own way, but sometimes a delay can mean your child needs a little extra support. When you know what milestones to look for, it’s easier to talk with your doctor or early intervention program. Getting help early can make a big difference.

Tools that make it easier

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has free tools for families who want to learn more about milestones and child development. The Milestone Tracker App is free and helps you keep track of your child’s growth from 2 months to 5 years old. You can see short videos, mark milestones your child reaches, and find easy ideas for helping them learn. The CDC also has fun children’s books like Baby’s Busy Day, Where Is Bear?, and Amazing Me: It’s Busy Being 3! that teach about milestones while you read together.

Celebrate your child’s journey

Understanding milestones isn’t about comparing your child to others. It’s about celebrating your child’s unique path and noticing how they grow each day.

So next time you wonder, “Should my child be doing this yet?” take a deep breath. Every milestone—big or small—is part of your child’s amazing story.

How do I know if my child might need an IEP?

IEPs are designed to help children be successful in school. If you have concerns about how your child is learning, developing, or keeping up in class, or if you think your child may have a delay or disability, it is a good idea to have them evaluated. The evaluation will determine whether your child qualifies for an IEP and identify the type of support that may help them thrive.

Should I wait to see if my child “catches up”?

Nope. Getting help early is always best. The sooner support is in place, the easier it is to keep your child moving forward.

How do I get an IEP for my child?

Think of it as a three-step process:

1. Ask for an evaluation.
   Write a brief letter or email to the school expressing your concern and requesting that your child be tested for extra help.
2. Give permission.
   The school cannot move forward without your okay. Once you sign, they have 50 school days to finish testing.
3. Meet with the team.
   You will sit down with the Case Conference Committee (CCC)—that’s you, teachers, and maybe specialists like a speech or occupational therapist. Together, you will review the results and decide if your child qualifies.
   If they do, the team will develop an IEP (Individualized Education Program) that is tailored specifically for your child.

What’s in an IEP for my child?

An IEP is basically a roadmap for how your child will receive support at school. It can include:

• Annual goals—Big-picture goals for the year.
• Objectives—Small steps to reach those goals.
• Specially designed instruction with a special education teacher.
• Related services like speech therapy, OT, PT, or counseling.
• Accommodations (extra time, flexible seating, breaks).
• Modifications (fewer problems on a worksheet, different assignments).

What’s in it for me as a parent?

An IEP should give you:

• A clear plan so you know exactly how the school will help.
• Regular updates so you are not left guessing about progress.
• A legal document that can grow and change as your child does.
• Proof that your child is making progress—not just words, but goals and steps you can see.

Will my child always have an IEP?

Not necessarily.

• As long as your child needs extra support, they can continue to have an IEP.
• Every year, the team meets to review the plan and make changes if needed.
• Every three years, the school does a full re-evaluation to see if your child still qualifies for special education services.

Big picture: An IEP is not a label—it is a tool. It ensures your child receives the proper support at the right time, allowing them to thrive in school.

For more information, visit https://www.in.gov/doe/students/special-education/#Spread_the_Word and check out the Spread the Word documents developed for families by the Indiana Department of Education, and check out Navigating the Course. If you have questions, consider reaching out to INSOURCE.

Marcie Beers

mlbeers@iu.edu

Why is confidence important?

Confidence is a state of mind; it affects how you approach new challenges, build relationships, and recognize that sometimes you have to try again.

Confidence affects our ability to:

• Build Relationships
• Make Decisions
• Understand that mistakes help you grow
• Solve Problems
• Achieve Goals

Here are some tips you can use right now to help your preschooler increase their self-confidence:

Offer Developmentally-Appropriate Choices

Providing your child with choices gives them a sense of control and ownership. Even small decisions, like what color cup they would like or which flavor of ice cream they want for dessert. Just be sure to offer choices that are acceptable to you, regardless of what they choose.

Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Praise effort, perseverance, and strategy. For example, “You worked really hard on that puzzle!” This kind of praise helps children associate hard work with success, rather than fearing failure.

Encourage Independence in Everyday Tasks

Let them zip up their jacket, help pack their lunch, or feed the family pet. It will take longer, but the payoff is huge. It teaches responsibility and lets them know they can do some of the same activities that you do. This makes them feel proud and confident.

Use Positive Language

Focus on what you want your child to do, not what they should not do. Instead of saying, “Don’t drop it,” try saying, “Hold it with both hands.” This change can promote a more encouraging environment.

Model Confidence

Show your child how you handle everyday challenges and approach new things. It is okay to let them know that you had to try something several ways to get it to work. Or that you were unsure of trying something new but then enjoyed it. They watch us and learn from our behaviors. Kids mirror the behavior of trusted adults.

It is Okay to Make Mistakes

Remind your preschooler that making errors is how we learn. Share your own small failures and how you bounced back. A fear of failure can paralyze a child. Understanding that we all make mistakes helps children build resilience and a willingness to try again.

Encourage Social Connections

Friendships are a key ingredient in developing confidence. Provide opportunities for your child to practice sharing and engage in group activities. When children feel accepted and included, they naturally feel more confident.

Set Clear Routines and Boundaries

Having a routine helps children understand expectations and feel secure. When children know what to expect and what is expected of them, they feel more competent.

Celebrate Small Wins

Did your child put their shoes on? Did they try the vegetable at dinner? These small victories help your child see the progress they are making, reinforcing the belief that they are capable. Let them hear you tell someone what they did and how proud you are!

Confident children are more likely to:

• Try new activities
• Participate in class
• Express their thoughts and ideas
• Share and engage in group activities

Developing self-confidence in your child is a process that requires patience, encouragement, and time. It is important for all children, including children who have delays or disabilities. The strategies above can serve as a starting point to help your child build their confidence. As your child becomes more confident, you are preparing them to make decisions, build relationships, and achieve their goals.

Marcie Beers

mlbeers@iu.edu

Preschool benefits children in many ways. It gets them ready for school and teaches important life skills.

Learning to Get Along with Others
Preschool is often a child’s first time being in a setting with other children. They learn how to:

• Share
• Take turns
• Work together
• Solve problems with friends

These skills help them build strong friendships.

Understanding Feelings
In preschool, children learn how to talk about their feelings and understand how others feel. This helps them feel more confident.

Getting Ready to Learn
Children start learning early reading and math skills through activities like games, songs, and stories. The lessons and activities make learning new things fun.

Becoming More Independent
Preschool gives kids the chance to make choices and solve simple problems by themselves. This helps them become more confident.

Learning to Listen and Follow Directions
Preschool teaches children how to listen carefully and follow rules. These are skills they will use in school and throughout their lives.

Feeling Ready for Kindergarten
Being in preschool helps children become familiar with the school setting. They learn daily routines, how to follow directions, and what to expect. This makes starting kindergarten easier and more exciting.

Preschool helps children grow in many ways. It builds their social, emotional, and learning skills. These are the building blocks for success in school and beyond.

Hello,

I am so happy you are visiting the Early Childhood Insights blog! I want to tell you a bit about myself—I’m a mother to two grown boys and a grandma. I have taught second grade and worked as a special education advocate, helping families. I enjoy helping families navigate their children’s educational journey. I have personally experienced the journey of special education with my son. I now know that I could have done more to help him earlier if I had known more. My passion is introducing families to topics early on and prompting them to ask questions of those working with their child. I encourage and support them to become informed parents. Information is power, and you are your child’s best advocate. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have.

Marcie Beers,
Project Manager,
Early Childhood Center IIDC,
Mother, Special Education Advocate
mlbeers@iu.edu

IFSP vs. IEP: What is the Difference?

The IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) and IEP (Individualized Education Program) are both:

• Part of a law called IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
• Developed only if the child qualifies after testing
• Created with parents as part of the team
• Require parents to give initial permission
• Based on the child’s testing and parent input
• Plans that explain what services the child will get and how they will track progress
• Reviewed and updated regularly

How Are They Different?

How do you get an IFSP or IEP?

A child must qualify for an IFSP or an IEP. To qualify, a multidisciplinary team conducts an evaluation. The results will help determine if the child needs services.

IFSP

Upon request, children will be evaluated for developmental delays by the early intervention system in your state (in Indiana, the early intervention system is called First Steps). A child with a medical diagnosis that is known to cause developmental delays will qualify. The evaluation will cover the five developmental areas.

• Physical development (moving, health, senses)
• Communication development (how the child understands and talks)
• Cognitive development (learning, playing, solving problems)
• Social and emotional development (feelings, having a good relationship with others)
• Adaptive development (eating, dressing, sleeping)

IEP

Children will be evaluated by the school system, upon request. The IEP will focus on:

• Academic skills (reading, writing, math)
• Cognitive abilities (thinking, problem-solving)
• Communication (ability to understand and express themselves)
• Physical skills (gross and fine motor skills)
• Social and emotional development (manages emotions, behaves in social situations)
• Functional Performance (self-care, social interactions)

The IEP evaluation may also include:

• Classroom observations
• Review of student records
• Work samples
• Questionnaire for the family

All information will be reviewed to determine if a student needs special education services.

IFSP/IEP Timelines

The IFSP helps young children and their families get the help they need at home or in the community. The IEP helps older children do their best in school. Both plans include parents and are designed to meet your child’s needs. Questions? Contact INSOURCE, Indiana’s parent resource and referral center at www.insource.org.

Hello,

I am so happy you are visiting the Early Childhood Insights blog! I want to tell you a bit about myself—I’m a mother to two grown boys and a grandma. I have taught second grade and worked as a special education advocate, helping families. I enjoy helping families navigate their children’s educational journey. I have personally experienced the journey of special education with my son. I now know that I could have done more to help him earlier if I had known more. My passion is introducing families to topics early on and prompting them to ask questions of those working with their child. I encourage and support them to become informed parents. Information is power, and you are your child’s best advocate. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have.

Marcie Beers, Project Manager, Early Childhood Center IIDC, Mother, Special Education Advocate

mlbeers@iu.edu

Indiana’s Parent Training and Information Center since 1975

IN*SOURCE provides high-quality information, training, and support to families and the individuals and organizations who serve them.

IN*SOURCE serves families of children and young adults with disabilities from birth to age 26 by providing information about such things as:

• Parent’s Rights and Responsibilities
• Parent Participation and Advocacy
• Special Education Regulations and Procedures

IN*SOURCE offers

• Help from trained staff through one-on-one support that is free and confidential
• A website with resources and live chat feature during business hours
• Free trainings, weekly newsletters, and webinars
• Translation to support all families
• Webinars anytime on the IN*SOURCE YouTube Playlist
• Support at IFSP, IEP, and 504 meetings in-person and virtual as scheduling permits

What Happens When You Call?

You will speak to someone who understands disabilities and can help you with your questions. They will only ask for basic information about you and your child (name, school district, area of disability) for grant funding purposes. You have the right to not share your information.

Reach out to the call center or find your local Special Education Liaison for your area at this link

 Visit the IN*SOURCE Website : https://insource.org/

Call IN*SOURCE: 574-234-7101

Email IN*SOURCE: insource@insource.org

Family Testimonials:

” As a parent of a child with disabilities, my family has greatly benefited from the knowledge, resources, and support provided by IN*SOURCE. Their guidance has been invaluable in helping me navigate complex systems and advocate for my child. I am deeply grateful for this assistance and firmly believe these services must remain available to all families in Indiana who have children with disabilities. Children with disabilities deserve every opportunity to reach their full potential. IN*SOURCE plays an essential role in ensuring families, volunteers, and professionals have the tools and support to make this possible.”

“In summary, as a parent of a child with disabilities, my family has benefited from the knowledge, resources, and support provided by IN*SOURCE. Their guidance has been Invaluable in helping me navigate complex systems and advocate for my child. I am deeply grateful for this assistance.”

Additional Resources from INSOURCE:

Parent to Parent Guide document in English and Spanish

Hello,

I am so happy you are visiting the Early Childhood Insights blog! I want to tell you a bit about myself—I’m a mother to two grown boys and a grandma. I have taught second grade and worked as a special education advocate helping families. I enjoy helping families navigate their children’s educational journey. I have personally experienced the journey of special education with my son. I now know that I could have done more to help him earlier if I had known more. My passion is introducing families to topics early on and prompting them to ask questions of those working with their child. I encourage and support them to become informed parents. Information is power, and you are your child’s best advocate. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have.

Marcie Beers,

Project Manager,

Early Childhood Center IIDC,

Mother, Special Education Advocate

mlbeers@iu.edu

When you begin searching for a preschool, you will find there are many different kinds of programs. Each one has its own way of teaching and caring for young children.

While all programs should be prepared to welcome children with delays or disabilities, this is not always the case. When visiting, ask if the program has experience supporting children like yours and notice how welcoming and comfortable they appear.

Below are some types of preschool programs and teaching styles.

Faith-Based

• Teaches lessons based on religion and values
• Follows the values and beliefs of its religion
• Children learn kindness, respect, and faith

Head Start

• Parents help support their child’s learning.
• Lessons include play, art, and cultural activities.
• Children receive screenings to ensure they are making progress
• Offers support for children with disabilities and builds on their strengths

Language Immersion

• Spanish is the most common immersion language
• It may be full immersion (100%) or partial (around 50%)
• Family should be ready to commit to this learning style

Parent Cooperative (Co-op)

• Parents are required to have an active role in the classroom
• Families support daily tasks and learning
• Can be used with any program or a blend of programs

Private Preschools

• “Traditional” center-based preschool
• May be part of a daycare center or separate
• May use a variety of approaches

Public Preschools

• Offered through the school system
• Availability depends on where you live
• May offer a smooth transition into kindergarten—maybe located in the same building
• May use a variety of teaching approaches

Special Needs or “Developmental” Preschool

• Designed for children with delays or disabilities.
• May include both disabled and non-disabled children
• Offers services like speech or physical therapy.
• Usually offered by the school district, but sometimes offered privately via ABA clinics

Some preschools mix approaches to better meet the needs of the children they serve. Below are some common preschool methods and what each has to offer.

Ascend

• Blends learning with play and emotional growth
• Encourages creativity, movement, and brain development
• Supports school readiness and self-awareness

Bank Street

• Focuses on all areas of child development
• Learning is hands-on and based on themes
• Children progress at their own pace

HighScope

• Helps children get ready for school
• Teachers guide learning through play
• Builds thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills

Montessori

• Focuses on the whole child
• Children choose hands-on activities that interest them
• Teaches independence and real-life skills

Play-Based

• Children learn through play and exploration
• Focuses on social skills, creativity, and fun
• Often used with other types of programs

Reggio Emilia

• Children learn through art, play, and projects.
• Activities come from children’s interests
• Teachers guide and learn with the children

STEM

• Focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
• Children complete hands-on projects
• Builds strong early learning and problem-solving skills

Waldorf

• Combines routines, storytelling, and the arts
• Teaches through imagination and practical life skills.
• Uses little or no technology.

When visiting a preschool, ask about:

• The program’s approach to teaching and learning
• Cost and fees
• Family involvement
• Transportation
• Experience in supporting children with disabilities

This is a general guide—programs may vary depending on where you live. Preschool staff should be happy to answer your questions and help you find the best fit for your child and family.

Hello,

I am so happy you are visiting the Early Childhood Insights blog! I want to tell you a bit about myself—I’m a mother to two grown boys and a grandma. I have taught second grade and worked as a special education advocate helping families. I enjoy helping families navigate their children’s educational journey. I have personally experienced the journey of special education with my son. I now know that I could have done more to help him earlier if I had known more. My passion is introducing families to topics early on and prompting them to ask questions of those working with their child. I encourage and support them to become informed parents. Information is power, and you are your child’s best advocate. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have.

Marcie Beers, Project Manager, Early Childhood Center IIDC, Mother, Special Education Advocate

mlbeers@iu.edu

Both plans help students with disabilities do well in school. But they are not the same.

What Is an IEP?

IEP stands for Individualized Education Plan.
It is a legal document that explains the special education services and supports a student needs to do well in school.
An IEP makes sure your child receives a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).

To get an IEP, a child must:

• Be 3 years old or older
• Have a disability
• Need extra help to learn in school
• Take tests to show their strengths and needs

An IEP includes:

• Present Levels of Performance: How the child is currently doing in school
• Goals: What the child will work on during the year
• Objectives: Steps to reach those goals
• Related services: like speech therapy, physical therapy or special instruction in reading, math, or writing
• Who will help, how often, and where
• Accommodations: extra time, breaks, or preferred seating
• Modifications: changes to what the child is expected to learn

What Is a 504 Plan?

A 504 Plan provides accommodations and tools.

It helps children with disabilities access the same learning as their peers.
It does not include special education services.

To get a 504 Plan, a child must:

• Have a disability that limits a major life activity (like learning, breathing, or focusing)
• Need support to learn in a regular classroom

A 504 Plan may include:

• Accommodations: like extra time, breaks, or sitting near the front
• Assistive Technology: like hearing aids or special keyboards

Summary:

• An IEP gives more support. It includes special instruction and support services.
• A 504 Plan offers tools and changes to help the child access the same learning as their peers.

Hello,

I am so happy you are visiting the Early Childhood Insights blog! I want to tell you a bit about myself—I’m a mother to two grown boys and a grandma. I have taught second grade and worked as a special education advocate helping families. I enjoy helping families navigate their children’s educational journey. I have personally experienced the journey of special education with my son. I now know that I could have done more to help him earlier if I had known more. My passion is introducing families to topics early on and prompting them to ask questions to those working with their child. I encourage and support them to become informed parents. Information is power, and you are your child’s best advocate. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have.

Marcie Beers, Project Manager, Early Childhood Center IIDC, Mother, Special Education Advocate

mlbeers@iu.edu