We began providing services for children with special needs in the mid 1960’s. Several locations were used to provide Early Intervention (EI) services until 1983, when the agency purchased our Clarks Summit Children’s Center.

Today, services are provided in the child’s "natural environment" – their home, or child care facility. Agency staff partner with the parents and/or child care staff to incorporate the child’s developmental outcomes into their daily routine.

Specific services are based on the child’s Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) and may include specialized instruction, developmental activities, physical and/or speech therapies.

EI is provided for children from birth through three years of age.

Federal, state and local government programs fund these services. Children who are eligible for EI services receive them at no charge.

Lekotek is a unique learning and resource center and toy lending library serving children with special needs from birth to 12 years of age and their families.

The Lekotek concept was developed in Sweden. “Lek” is the Swedish word for play and “Tek” means library.

Play is a natural way for children to learn and for families to interact

• Uses play strategies and adapted toys
• Equipment helps enhance the child's development
• Improves family interactions
• Toys can be borrowed to continue play at home

Playgroups are offered once a month to provide parents with the opportunity to network, and the child the chance to play in an inclusive setting.

Thank you to the Moses Taylor Foundation and United Way of Lackawanna & Wayne Counties for their generous support of this program.

The National Lekotek Center has created three videos about the services provided for children with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and Autism. Click on the videos below to view them all.

Technology helps level the playing field for children with disabilities in all areas of life.

A component of the Lekotek program, Compuplay, provides computer classes, activities and services to children with special needs and their families.

Through the use of software, adaptive equipment and positive play methods using the computer, participants

• learn
• create
• explore
• make decisions

Compuplay focuses on the individual’s interests and capabilities so that computer sessions are motivating and fun.

Compuplay Camps and programs are available to all ages.