Alaska Infant Learning Program

The Alaska Infant Learning Program is a statewide system of professionals dedicated to serving all Alaskan families with children who are at risk for or experience developmental delay. The Alaska Infant Learning Program envisions a system where all Alaskan families have access to the services and resources to help their children thrive. Our mission is to build upon natural supports and provide resources that assist family members and caregivers to enhance children's learning and development through everyday learning opportunities. To accomplish this, Alaska has adopted these seven key principles for providing early intervention services in natural environments: Infants and toddlers learn best through everyday experiences and interactions with familiar people in familiar contexts. All families, with the necessary supports and resources, can enhance their children's learning and development. The primary role of a service provider in early intervention is to work with and support family members and caregivers in children's lives. The early intervention process, from initial contacts through transition, must be dynamic and individualized to reflect the child's and family members' preferences, learning styles and cultural beliefs. IFSP outcomes must be functional and based on children's and family’s needs and family-identified priorities. The family's priorities, needs and interests are addressed most appropriately by a primary provider who represents and receives team and community support. Interventions with young children and family members must be based on explicit principles, validated practices, best available research, and relevant laws and regulations.