The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Newborn Screening Program consists of screening and follow-up for disorders identified through testing a dried blood spot, as well as hearing screening and pulse oximetry screening. Newborn screening is typically performed within 24 to 48 hours of life to detect conditions or disorders in newborns soon after birth. These tests can help determine if a newborn has a condition or disease that can be improved with early treatment.

IDPH also offers information about genomics and genetic services, including:

• Information on understanding genetic conditions
• Genetic counseling
• Where to find genetic services and more

Illinois STAR NET Chicago Region V provides regional technical assistance, professional development, family learning opportunities and resources to support the education and development of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Support includes workshops, webinars (both live and on-demand), resource specialists, a virtual library and more.

Visit STAR NET Chicago Region V’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.

See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

For questions about STAR NET Region V, email starnet@cps.edu or call (773) 553-5596.

The STARNET Project is operated by the Chicago Public Schools, Office for Students with Disabilities, through a grant from the Illinois State Board of Education.

New Kingdom Trailriders (NKT) in Sherrard offers therapeutic horseback riding lessons for children ages 4 and up and adults with autism, mental illness, disabilities and other challenges. The lessons help promote mental focus, fine and gross motor skills, coordination, social skills and self-confidence. NKT serves residents in the greater Quad City area and surrounding communities. A limited number of scholarships are offered per riding session to individuals with proven financial need.

For questions, please contact NKT at (309) 764-4220 or info@nktriders.org.

Wrightslaw provides resources, an A to Z Topic Library and information for parents, educators, advocates and attorneys on special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities.

STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III provide regional training and resources to early childhood community professionals and families of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Support includes workshops, webinars (live and on-demand), technical assistance and resource specialists, a lending library and more.

Visit STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.

See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

For questions about STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III, email starnet@wiu.edu or call (309) 298-1634.

Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual funding from federal sources.

The Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission (IDHHC) provides a template to create a personalized Communication Card for people with hearing loss. The card helps others understand your communication needs and lists your preferred communication provider’s name and contact information. To create a personalized Communication Card, visit the “Create my own Communication Card” page on IDHHC’s website.

For more information, contact the IDHHC:

• Voice: (217) 557-4495
• Video: (217) 303-8010
• TTY: (888) 261-2698
• DHH.Communications@Illinois.gov

The Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery offers a safe, loving place for your child to stay while you address whatever difficult situation or needs you may have. In addition to crisis childcare, Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery provides a basic needs pantry, a family support program and Nurturing Families™ parenting classes.

For more information or individual support, contact the Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery at (217) 525-6800.

The Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) at John A. Logan College provides families with information, referrals, and financial assistance for child care. It also provides resources and support for child care and early education programs. CCR&R serves residents in Alexander, Gallatin, Franklin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Johnson, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Saline, Union, White and Williamson counties.

For questions, please call (800) 548-5563 or email ccrr@jalc.edu.

The National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability (NCHPAD), at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Health Professions, provides individuals with disabilities, families and caregivers, professionals and communities with information, research and the tools needed to promote health and create inclusive environments for all.

NCHPAD offers videos and resources for children and adults with disabilities and mobility limitations on topics including:

• Fun and leisure
• Physical activity
• Healthy eating and nutrition
• Mindfulness and more

For questions, please email nchpad@uab.edu or call (866) 866-8896.

STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI offer a range of regional resources to early childhood professionals and parents of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Resources include training, consultation, webinars and events for families and professionals, a lending library and more.

Visit the STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI website to learn more and register for webinars, training, and events near you.

See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.

For more information, email STAR NET Regions II and VI at starnet2and6@cntrmail.org or call (224) 366-8579.

Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual funding from federal sources.