The COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated a need for early childhood professionals to have a plan for continued service delivery in the context of a disaster or hazard. In this panel discussion three Early Intervention (EI) and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) experts, with significant experience working with children and families and as professional development leaders, discuss what the COVID-19 pandemic has taught them as EI/ECSE leaders and how those lessons can inform preparations for future disasters or hazards.

This discussion addresses systemic changes that can be made to prepare EI/ECSE systems to be immediately responsive to the needs of professionals, families, and young children served during and following a disaster or hazard. Ways in which EI/ECSE practitioners and Extension educators can prepare to provide crucial support to young children with disabilities and their military families in times of disasters or hazards also are shared.

Through this session, participants will:

• Connect the ways in which the experiences of the panelists during the first weeks and months of the COVID-19 pandemic can help other systems prepare for future disasters or hazards.
• Recognize systemic changes needed within their organizations to immediately meet the needs of all stakeholders during and following a disaster or hazard.
• Identify how EI/ECSE practitioners can continue to provide support to young children with disabilities and their military families during disasters or hazards.

Approved for 1.5 hours of CFLE continuing education credit.

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This webinar will be available on demand after the live date.
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