A review of early intervention data in Nebraska indicates there is a need to focus statewide efforts on implementation of evidence-based child and family assessments, aligning our child and family outcomes with family-identified needs and priorities, and providing supports and services within the context of family routines. Based on these needs, Nebraska is promoting a routines based approach to early intervention (RBEI).

RBI

Routines Based Interview (RBI) training practices are required steps for any services coordinator or early intervention provider interested in using the RBI as their child and family assessment.

Goals that relate to real life situations are important to families; important to teachers; and vital to children. Families, caregivers and teachers will see the value of working on relevant, specific and measurable IFSP/IEP outcomes.

Providing services in natural and inclusive environments means using the learning opportunities in everyday routines and activities in which children and families participate at home and preschool.

Nebraska’s RDA plan requires each PRT in the state to ensure that early intervention providers and services coordinators in their region receive professional development (PD) and technical assistance (TA) focusing on evidence-based practices in early intervention. 

The goal of the Results Driven Accountability (RDA) system is to improve educational results and functional outcomes, and demonstrate growth over time for all infants and toddlers with disabilities.

Much debate continues over the Primary Service Provider (PSP) model within our state and nationally. What may not be known is that the PSP model is promoted by NECTAC as well as major researchers in early intervention (EI). Studies show that “involvement of multiple practitioners in a family’s life on a regular basis has been found to negatively impact family functioning” (Rush and Shelden, 2007).

Evaluations and summaries that measure impact and effectiveness of Nebraska's early intervention improvement strategies.