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We are excited to announce the launch of Adapt to Impact, a new project designed to build on the success of two previous groundbreaking community initiatives by CIDE. Both of these programs played a pivotal role in helping Colorado’s licensed childcare providers enhance their practices to better support children with delays and disabilities. Adapt to Impact is supported by the Colorado Department of Education and Early Intervention Colorado. The project provides ongoing professional development, resources, and access to a loan library of adaptive equipment, toys, and materials at no cost to licensed Colorado family childcare homes, centers, and preschools.

What's New with Adapt to Impact

Adapt to Impact follows a similar model to the previous two projects, with a few exciting additions. This new initiative offers:

• Comprehensive Online Trainings: Designed for childcare providers, these courses will cover the topics of Introduction to Universal Design, Communication & Early Literacy, Fine Motor, Gross Motor, Vision & Hearing, and Behavior & Cognition. With a focus on universal design principles and simple low-cost adaptations and assistive technology, these online modules provide childcare professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to create more supportive environments for all children, regardless of ability.
• Loan Library of Adapted Materials: Our expanded loan library features more than 200 items that childcare providers can borrow and implement prior to making purchase decisions. The carefully selected toys, books, puzzles, curricula and assistive technologies help foster better engagement and success for children with diverse learning needs.
• Specialized Support and Resources: Our team of specialists has created information guides, video tutorials, and other resources to support childcare providers and educators in supporting all children, including those with delays and disabilities. In addition, the Adapt to Impact team will offer providers support in applying new strategies, troubleshooting challenges, and maximizing the impact of their practices.

Why Adapt to Impact Matters

Adapt to Impact helps create childcare environments where every child can succeed by supporting childcare providers with the tools, resources, and support to foster meaningful participation. Our goal is to ensure all children—regardless of ability—can engage, grow, and thrive in early learning settings.

Author: Paige Garman

For more information on how to get involved or access these resources, please visit Adapt to Impact  on our website or contact the team directly at AdaptCIDE@ucdenver.edu.