Child and Family Connections #3

Child and Family Connections #3 A family centered program for children birth–to-three who have or are likely to have delays in their development. We are Child & Family Connections #3.

Child & Family Connections serves as the single access point to Early Intervention services in the state of Illinois. There are 25 different offices located throughout Illinois. Our office provides services to families in Carroll, DeKalb, JoDaviess, Lee, Stephenson & Whiteside counties. Anyone who suspects a child has delays can make a referral to Child and Family Connections (parents, doctors, nu

rses, childcare providers, or friends). You do not have to be certain there is a delay in development to refer a child. Simply call our office toll-free at: 888-297-1041. When a child is referred to our program, they will be guided through the EI process by a Service Coordinator. The first step in this process begins when the Service Coordinator meets with the family to provide information about EI, discuss family rights, complete necessary paperwork and assist the family in scheduling evaluations. There is no cost for evaluations. The Service Coordinator will then meet with the family and the EI evaluators to review the results of the evaluations and discuss eligibility. Next, the Service Coordinator will meet with the family and evaluators to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). This plan addresses how the team will support families in promoting their child's optimal development. Some examples of the services that may be provided are assistive technology, developmental, occupational, physical or speech therapy and hearing or vision assessments. Finally, the Service Coordinator will assist the family with the transition process when the child approaches 30 months. Funding is provided in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Bureau of Part C Early Intervention. Our program is grant administered by the Regional Office of Education #8 that serves Carroll, JoDaviess & Stephenson counties. Please visit the following website for more information on the ROE #8: http://roe8.com/

If you would like more information about Early Intervention, please visit the following websites:

www.wiu.edu/providerconnections
www.eiclearinghouse.org
www.illinoiseitraining.org

*If you have concerns about a child who is over the age of 36 months, contact your local public school district for assistance.*

06/08/2026
06/06/2026

Most parents have seen it.

Your child walks through the door after school and suddenly everything falls apart. Tears. Anger. Defiance. Meltdowns over the smallest things.

It can feel confusing, especially when teachers tell you they were "fine all day".

But many children spend the school day holding it together - following rules, managing expectations, coping with social pressures, sensory overload, learning demands and stress. Home is often the one place where they feel safe enough to let those feelings out.

What looks like bad behaviour is often exhaustion, overwhelm, anxiety, frustration, or the release of emotions they have been carrying all day.

Understanding this can change how we respond. Instead of asking, "What is wrong with my child?" we can start asking, "What has my child been carrying all day?"

Every parent, carer and teacher needs to understand this.

Share this post to help more families see what may really be happening after school.

Free WHY YOUR CHILD GETS WORSE AFTER SCHOOL PARENT POSTER

LIKE the photo and comment "AFTER" and we will send you a message with a link to a free PDF of this resource.

06/04/2026

"Early signs of autism in babies and toddlers can vary, and recognizing them early can lead to better support. Some signs to watch for include limited eye contact, delayed speech, or repetitive movements. Babies may also show intense focus on objects, sensitivity to sensory inputs, or have a strong preference for routines. It’s important to note that every child is unique, and not all of these signs necessarily indicate autism. If you have concerns, consulting a pediatrician early can make a big difference in getting the right support. 💖 "

06/03/2026
06/01/2026
05/29/2026

💙 Food Resources Available in Our Community This Summer 🍎

No family should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from. We’re sharing this helpful community resource guide from our friends at OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center highlighting local programs and locations offering free meals, food assistance, and support throughout the summer months.

Please help us spread the word by sharing this flyer with friends, neighbors, families, schools, and community groups. Together, we can help connect people with the support they need. 💙

Address

27 S State Avenue, Ste 101
Freeport, IL
61032

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm

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