May 5-9, 2025 - Virtual via Zoom
May 5-9, 2025 - Virtual via Zoom
A key provision in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C, for infants and toddlers with disabilities and developmental delays, indicates services must be provided in natural environments to the maximum extent possible. But what does that really mean? This presentation will explore the natural environment concept both as a location and a philosophy of the provision of services through naturally occurring learning opportunities within family and child routines. The presentation will include information sharing through research, resources, engagement activities, and group discussion to explore these concepts together and support transformative thinking.
Adrienne holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master’s in Early Childhood Special Education. Her professional experience includes many roles in the Part C systems in Alaska and Washington since 2009. At the local level these include service coordinator, intake coordinator, special educator, and program director. At the state level these include training, workforce development and technical assistance specialist and team manager. Adrienne currently works with the ESIT State Leadership Team where she develops and delivers training, supports the in-service training framework, and develops guidance for ESIT professionals.
DeEtte L. Snyder, PhD is a state administrator for the Washington Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) Program as the Workforce Development Manager since July 2022. She received her doctorate in Special Education in 2018 and has served as adjunct faculty for various universities preparing special educators. She is an early childhood educator at heart holding many roles from teacher to service coordinator to program administrator of early childhood programs. Her passion is creating and supporting a knowledgeable workforce to support our youngest learners who have a variety of developmental needs and their families.
