Infant Development Program (IDP)
Are you concerned about your baby’s development? For example, perhaps he or she is having difficulty sitting unsupported, or walking, or talking? If so, an Infant Development Consultant can help.
The IDP serves children from birth to three years old who are at risk for, or who already have a delay in development. Each program brings parents and professionals together to help children overcome developmental difficulties.
The B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development supports the program. Your participation is voluntary and free of charge.
The IDP is an opportunity for you to:
- Learn ways to encourage your child's development.
- Meet other parents and discuss parenting issues.
- Make the best use of other community resources and activities.
- Gain skills to become an advocate for your child.
Your baby also has the chance to become more independent, discover abilities, and learn new skills.
All our programs are "family-centred." This means that you, the parent, decide on what kind of support you need.
Services Available
Infant Development Program services may include:
- One-on-one support for parents.
- Home visits to encourage progress and develop new activities.
- Developmental assessments and written reports.
- Playgroups with parent participation, parent workshops, or support groups.
- Consultation with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech language therapists.
- A toy and book-lending library.
- Assistance for you and your child in making the transition to a preschool/day care program.
- Coordinating with other available services.
- Education concerning disabilities and a baby’s typical development.
- Help to include your child in community activities.
Services are available in Punjabi.
Professional Partners
With your consent, Infant Development Consultants work closely together with other professionals both in the FVCDC and the broader community. At the FVCDC, these may include occupational and physical therapists and speech-language pathologists. Community professionals include physicians and paediatricians, public health nurses, daycare personnel, social workers, and supported child development.
Referrals
You may refer your child to us, known as a self-referral. Caregivers, family doctors, preschool teachers, or anyone else involved in your child's life may also make referrals.
Once you are referred, an Infant Development Consultant will visit you in your home. These consultants are professionals with skills and knowledge in child development. They can help you enhance your child's development.
Together, you will plan activities that best meet both your child's and your family's needs. If your child has special needs, up-to-date information will be made available to you.
Find Out More
To refer a child or to find out more about the Infant Development Program available in your community, contact Faye Auffray 604-824-8760 ext. 239 (toll-free: 877.820.8760) ext 239, or by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To learn more about the Infant Development Program, visit the provincial website at www.idpofbc.ca. The page “For Parents” is particularly helpful.
To learn more about your child's development, please visit http://www.earlylearning.ubc.ca/sdpp.htm
For the Aboriginal Infant Development Program (AIDP) - please contact Windy Solla by phone at 604-824-3200 or toll free 1-877-411-3200 or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or through their website www.stolonation.bc.ca