Your questions are so important to us. Here are some of the questions we hear most often:
How much does the Jumpstart program cost?
The Jumpstart program is 100% free to our families. We are funded by a prevention initiative grant through the Illinois State Board of Education which allows us to provide services, events, outings, books, and materials free of charge for our families. Our program does have qualifying criteria, but don’t worry! Your home visitor will explain these criteria over the phone or during your enrollment visit. If your family does not qualify for the Easterseals Jumpstart program, we’ll do our best to help you find what you need.
What’s the catch?
There is NO catch! All we ask is that you participate in visits, remain open to learning new things, and come to some fun, free Jumpstart events.
Do we have to meet in my home?
Children are most receptive in the comfort of their own homes. That said, if you are uncomfortable with a home visitor coming to your home, visits can be done in a public place like the library or in our Easterseals office in Joliet, Morris, or Bradley.
How often do you come?
Visits occur twice a month on your schedule. Our program requirements and goals require us to see our families 24 times in a 12-month period, or twice per month.
What if my child is in foster care?
If you are a biological parent, we can do visits with you and your child during your scheduled visitation time, whether that is at an office, in the community, or in your home. If you are a foster parent, home visits can be scheduled with you and your foster child in your home.
Can my older children participate?
The Easterseals Jumpstart program is designed for expecting families and families with children aged 0-3. However, we have many families with older children at home who want to be involved in what little brother or sister is doing! We happily include them in any way that we can and often bring learning materials for big brother or sister to enjoy while our home visitors work with you and baby.
Do you provide therapy?
Home visitors with the Easterseals Jumpstart program do not provide therapy. However, if you or your family needs a service like therapy, we will help you find it!
What type of degree do the home visitors have?
Our home visitors come from a variety of backgrounds, some of which include: child development, education, social work, and psychology.
If I can’t make the visit, can another family member attend the visit in my place?
The Jumpstart program typically works with the primary caregiver(s). If you are unable to attend a visit, our home visitors are very flexible and can reschedule at another time.
What happens when my child turns 3?
As your child approaches their 3rd birthday, your home visitor will partner with you to create a transition plan. We highly encourage preschool attendance and can help you transition your child from Jumpstart to preschool! If you decide another option is better for your child, we will provide support for that, too.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up for Jumpstart by calling (815) 725-2194 and asking for the Jumpstart program or you can sign up on our website HERE.