"It is well recognized that Early
Child Development is of fundamental importance in determining long-term
health, well-being and general competence and adjustment in life."
Clyde Hertzman, Human Early Learning Partnership website 2003
Children First in Ridge Meadows
This website is designed to provide the Maple Ridge / Pitt Meadows and Katzie communities with up-to-date information on programs, projects, services and resources for families and service providers that meet the needs of children prenatally to 6 years and their families.
The Children First Initiative
is a key component of BC's early childhood development strategy and a
commitment to developing an integrated system of services and supports
for young children and families within our communities.
The Ridge Meadows
Children First Initiative in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows has been underway
for more than four years now. It is being led by the Early
Childhood Development Committee
(RMECDC),
a subcommittee of the Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Katzie Community Network..
Profile -
Braden Grozdanich and the Infant Development Program
Braden Grozdanich was 7 months old when his mother, Toni heard about the Infant Development Program. One of the therapists at the Child Development Centre suggested she connect with the IDP consultants who could provide extra support for Braden and his family.
At first, Melissa, the IDP consultant visited Braden at his home but, gradually, Toni began to take him to the playgroups at the IDP Centre. “In the beginning, Melissa would always come to the house but I found there were more interesting things here. At home, she would mostly use the same toys that he played with every day and it could get boring but here there are always different things that she brings out for him and he likes it. It's more fun, plus we get out of the house and there's always lots going on here - people coming in and out.”
Braden also took part in a fun singing group that helped him with his speech and language. As Toni says, “He never spoke at all before. He didn't say anything except for 'more' and 'on' but now he's says a lot more words and he's actually repeating things. It was right after the singing that I started noticing there was more talking. He loves music and it really helps him.”
Toni remembers what it was like when Braden first started out. “He couldn't even sit on his own when he first came here - he couldn't sit up straight, he couldn't do anything - but he's come a long way. He's gotten so much stronger. Now he can stand there all by himself playing at the train table. I think it's great for him. I'm so glad that this place is here.”
The Infant Development Program is part of the Ridge Meadows Association for Community Living. IDP offers support for children from birth to three years who are at risk for a developmental delay. IDP Consultants provide services and support to children in their own homes, in the community or through playgroups, infant massage groups etc. at their centre at 12345 Callaghan Ave. For more information, call (604) 466-0787.
To view more profiles, follow the Resources link and click on Archives