Maria Jackson is a full time service coordinator for the Pathways Early Intervention Program. She is just initiating a phone call to James Hill, the father of a child in the program. She is calling for several reasons. First, contacting James has been on her list of calls to make for a while; and second, Lindsay Green, the early childhood teacher who makes weekly visits, asked her to call James. Lindsay told Maria that she was beginning to feel that she spent more than half of her home visits talking with James. She wasn’t getting around to the special instruction interventions on James Junior’s IFSP. She doesn’t mind talking with James, but thought he could use some additional support. He seemed to have so much to talk about every week. Lindsay also didn’t want Maria to think she was taking her job away from her.

Maria: Hi James. This is Maria Jackson from the Pathways Early Intervention Program. I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to get back to you. I just wanted to call to see how things are going. When we last met we didn’t schedule another check in. We left it that I would call if I didn’t hear from you in a couple of months. Also, I saw Lindsay Green yesterday and she thought it would be a good idea if I gave you a call. How are things going with James Junior?

James: Things are fine. Everything is moving along. We have our scheduled appointments at the clinic with the therapist and Lindsay comes to our home just about every week. Things are fine......(slight pause).....listen to what James Jr. did last week! He pulled himself up to standing on the edge of the sofa. I couldn’t believe it! It was great! (another pause, but no additional comments follow).

Maria: That’s good news! I’m glad to hear he is making progress. It sounds like you’re thrilled! What else is he up to? Is there anything else you’d like to tell me about James Jr.?

James: He has a new toy stuffed lion that he loves to cuddle with.

Maria: I bet he’s really cute all cuddled up with the lion.

James: Yes, he is (pause, no additional information is forthcoming).

Maria: Is there anything I can help you with today?

James: Not that I can think of. I usually talk to Lindsay when things come up. I see her practically every week. She’s very helpful. When little things do come up we talk about it.

Maria: Perhaps you’d be interested in knowing about support groups or workshops for parents?

James: I’ll check with Lindsay about that too.

Maria: That’s good you have someone to talk to. I’m glad Lindsay is helpful. You know you can always contact me too; that’s my role as your service coordinator.

James: Thanks, I can’t think of anything (another quiet pause).

Maria: If something comes up, please feel free to call me any time. I’m usually in and out of the office meeting with families and other service providers throughout the week. If I’m not in my office, you can leave me a voice message. I check those regularly so I can get back to you right away.

James: I appreciate that. I’ll keep you in mind. Like I said before, things are moving along for James Jr. and Lindsay sees us all the time.

Maria: Ok, bye. It’s good to hear things are going well for you. Remember, give a call if I can help you with anything.

James: Ok, bye.