Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Transdisciplinary Approach?
Why are families so important in the Transdisciplinary Approach?
What are the benefits of this approach?
How can I be sure my child is getting what (s)he needs?
Where can I get more information?

WHAT IS THE TRANSDISCIPLINARY APPROACH?

The TRANSDISCIPLINARY Approach is designed to combine the knowledge you have about your child as his/her parent/guardian, with the expertise of the rest of the Early Intervention team to improve services for you and your child.

• Parents/guardians, primary service providers, and other trained professionals - who are consulted when needed - form the Early Intervention Team. When using a TRANSDLSCIPLINARY Approach, there is usually one primary person (the primary service provider) who works with the child and family on a regular basis.
• The primary service provider working with you and your child has been trained as an Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Speech Language Pathologist, Social Worker, Nurse or Special Educator. This individual has experience, skills, and knowledge about overall development. The primary service provider is qualified to help your child in all areas of his/her growth and development, including the following skills:
  • Gross Motor Skills - Large body movements such as crawling, walking and jumping.
  • Fine Motor Skills - Small body movements such as using one's hands to hold a rattle, a spoon, or do a puzzle.
  • Communication, speech and language - Understanding what is said, following directions, and making needs known.
  • Sensory - Receiving and using information through touch, hearing and sight.
  • Social and Emotional Development - Interaction with other children, adults and the environment.
  • Cognitive - Thinking and learning.
  • Adaptive, self help skills -Ability to perform daily living skills appropriate to the child's age such as feeding him/herself
• The primary service provider also has available a team of other professionals who can be called upon to discuss your child's developmental progress and appropriate services when needed.
• A TRANSDISCIPLINARY team works with you to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that includes the goals (outcomes) you envision for your child and family, and shares in the responsibility of helping your child to develop to his/her greatest potential.
• As changes are needed or new concerns come up, you and your primary service provider can consult with other team members to adjust or change the IFSP goals (outcomes).