Early On of Barry County

10/29/2025

NAVIGATING EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIAL EDUCATION (PRESCHOOL)
WITH KELSEY BISWANGER

OCTOBER 30, 2025
12:00PM-1:00PM

Heading off to preschool? Students with disabilities should attend preschool with non-disabled peers. But navigating preschool is different than kindergarten or the Early On program.

Join this free, online workshop to learn more about preschool options that are available for students with an IEP (Individualized Education Program), and how special education and related services work for preschoolers.

In this workshop you will learn more about:

Researching preschool options
Least Restrictive Environment and the benefits
Rights and protections
Supports and services available

There will also be time set aside to ask questions.

Who should attend? Families with a child in or getting ready for preschool with a disability or developmental concern

Registration required. https://tinyurl.com/4zmc42aw

If you require accommodations or materials in an alternative format, please let us know two weeks before the workshop.

10/27/2025

A 16-year-old boy with autism was found dead in a Cass County lake after he had been reported missing.

10/25/2025

10/23/2025

Join us for a ghoulishly delightful afternoon at the library as we celebrate the spooky season with our Spooky Cookie Decorating program! On Monday, October 27 from 3:30-4:30, youth of all ages can drop by and decorate a cookie to enjoy immediately or take with you to enjoy later. All supplies will be provided and everyone is welcome!

10/21/2025

19 Co-Regulation Tips for Infants and Toddlers
When the needs of infants and toddlers are met, positive behavior can follow. Help young children feel cared for and understood with these tips.

Link:
https://blog.brookespublishing.com/19-co-regulation-tips-for-addressing-young-childrens-behavior/
utm_medium=email&utm_source=exacttarget&utm_campaign=09042025-ec-send-noauthor-news-subscribers

10/21/2025

💙🤍🦁

10/20/2025

10/14/2025

Early On friends, come play!
We would love to see all your Halloween costumes! 👻

10/14/2025

Shifting From Dismissing to Validating Your Child’s Feelings

Sometimes, in our efforts to comfort our children, we accidentally dismiss their feelings without realizing it. We might say things like, “You’re okay, don’t cry,” or “It’s not that big of a deal.” While these words are meant to soothe, they can leave a child feeling unheard or confused about their emotions.

For example, when a child falls and cries, saying “You’re fine!” may shut down their expression of pain. Instead, try “That looked like it hurt. Are you okay?” This response acknowledges their experience and offers support.

Another common phrase is, “Don’t be scared, there’s nothing to be afraid of.” While we want to comfort, it’s more validating to say, “I know that felt scary. I’m here with you.” This teaches your child that fear is okay and manageable.

Lastly, when a child says, “I miss you,” it’s easy to reply, “But you were just with me!” Instead, try “I missed you too. It’s hard to be apart sometimes.” That simple acknowledgment helps your child feel seen and emotionally safe.

When we slow down and meet emotions with understanding instead of correction, children learn that all feelings are welcome—and that’s the foundation of emotional intelligence and resilience.

09/21/2025

From Breastfeeding to Buckling Up: Keeping Baby Safe Every Step of the Way. Join us for a special drop-in session on car seat safety, where a certified technician will share expert tips on correct installation, harnessing, and common mistakes to avoid.

📍 Barry County: Tuesday, September 23 | 10 AM – 12 PM
(Presentation will begin at 11:00 am)

📍 Eaton County: Wednesday, September 24 | 10 AM – 12 PM

No registration needed—just drop in! Let’s keep our little ones safe from the very first ride

07/16/2025

Some fun in the sun (and rain!) at the Barry County Fair until 3:00 today in the community tent! Come see us!