Waves believes that parents and primary caregivers are naturally a child’s first and most important teachers. We also recognize that very young children often learn best in the environment in which they are most comfortable. We know that learning occurs through play-based activities and within daily routines. We understand that each child, no matter how young, has his/her own learning differences and that it is important for parents, caregivers, and other professionals to understand those differences and use them to maximize development and learning.

That is why our Early Learning Program provides a variety of play-based learning opportunities for babies, toddlers, and preschool aged children of all abilities in the child’s home or daycare/preschool. We also provide support for families and caregivers so that they are equipped to meet their child’s unique needs as they continue to grow and develop.

Click here to meet the Early Learning Team

Home & Community Services

Waves’ Early Learning Program provides services to young children who have been diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability. Highly qualified and experienced Early Interventionists travel to their homes or other sites in the community to work with families and other care providers.

Our Early Interventionists help families and caregivers integrate learning strategies into everyday routines such as mealtimes, playtime, bath time, diaper changing, and bedtime that encourage growth in all areas of development. They will help plan the home program and provide information and support that will facilitate your child’s development.

Consultations & Training

Waves also supports early childhood educators and other child-care providers through consultation and in-service training on topics including:

  • Challenging behaviors
  • Communication delays
  • Developmental expectations
  • Inclusion in the classroom

Developmental Milestones

At 3 months of age, most babies:

  • Lift their head when held at your shoulder
  • Grasp a rattle when given to her
  • React to peek-a-boo games
  • Smile spontaneously

At 6 months of age, most babies:

  • Follow a moving object with their eyes
  • Turn toward the source of a sound
  • Reach for and pick up objects
  • Sit with support
  • Imitate speech sounds
  • Roll over in both directions

At 12 months of age, most babies:

  • Use 2-3 words consistently
  • Pull to a standing position
  • Stand briefly without support
  • Crawl
  • Play peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake
  • Put objects into a container

At 18 months of age, most children:

  • Use at least 6-10 words consistently
  • Follow simple directions (“Bring me the ball”)
  • Pull off shoes, socks and mittens
  • Feed themselves with their fingers
  • Walk without help
  • Point, make sounds, or try to use words to ask for things

At 2 years of age, most children:

  • Use at least 50 words consistently
  • Recognize familiar pictures
  • Feed themselves with a spoon
  • Walk up stairs
  • Identify hair, eyes, ears, and nose by pointing
  • Build a tower of four blocks

Our services, including an evaluation, are FREE to those who qualify. If you have questions or concerns, contact Gina Wilson at rwilson@wavesinc.com or (615) 794-0633.