Who are LEAD Foundation’s Child Development Specialists (CDS), and do I get a say in who works with my child?
LEAD’s CDS's are the in-home / educational aides who work directly with your child and you. Many of our CDS's have a diploma or degree and/or previous related experience. We look for staff who have the “it” factor when working with your children.
All staff at LEAD Foundation must have a Police Check, Child Welfare Check and reference checks on file.
Staff receive an extensive orientation to ensure your child receives the best programming possible.
Do I need to be with the Child Development Specialist and my child when they are at home?
You do need to be directly involved with your team and your child's program. LEAD requires you and/or another guardian over 18 to be in the home for each session.
What am I responsible for as a parent?
Parents are an integral part of LEAD Foundation's program - we can't do it without you! Our team is here to support you learning strategies to help you and your child achieve your goals. Goals are set based on your priorities with your team. Parents are involved in all aspects of LEAD's programs; this includes team meetings, goal-setting, documentation and team communication.
Why is play important?
Children learn best through play. It is through play that we experience the world, learn social skills, and develop problem-solving skills.
What is the individual plan?
An individual plan is developed with you specifically for your child. The plan focuses on short- term and long-term goals. Your team creates and helps implement these goals. At LEAD we strive to make your child’s plan easy to read and understandable for everyone on the team.
Can my CDS take my child on an outing and/or drive my child?
Outings, such as play dates, may help target your child's goals as listed in the individual plan. LEAD Foundation requires our staff to have a Class 4 licence in order to drive your child. You will also be required to provide your written permission that our staff transport your child. Please refer to your Parent Agreement for further information.
Will there be days when I don’t have a CDS?
Yes. CDS's are required to attend an Education Day once a month. Programming is cancelled for this day. Education Days include topics related to your child's program along with opportunities for all our staff to network and problem-solve together. There will be no programming on statutory holidays and between Christmas and New Years as the LEAD office is closed. Your family will have a binder with a calendar outlining important dates to remember.
LEAD staff are entitled to wellness days, sick days and vacation time. We will do our best to ensure you have as much notice as possible for these days. If your CDS is going to be away for an extended period (i.e. a week's vacation), we will do our best to find a substitute during this time.
What will happen in the first couple of weeks?
Your team will contact you over the first few weeks to arrange a time to meet with you and your child. This is a great time to get to know each team member and what their role will be in your program. Your CDS will take the first 2 - 3 weeks building rapport with your child and working with you to understand your child's strengths and areas of need.
Please don't hesitate to call your Program and Behaviour Specialist and / or Program Coordinator if you have any questions.