Parent and childcare provider education & training, autism resources, classroom observations, screenings and evaluations

Champions for Children is a United Way of Tyler/Smith County partner agency and is focused on quality, early childhood development for all children. Champions' provides training and mentoring for adult caregivers to better understand the unique needs of young children and specialized services to children and adults to build strong families and a stronger community.

We assist children, families, educators, and childcare providers through the following programs:

• Help Me Grow (Free): This is the first step! Through the "Help Me Grow" program, we provide education screening and referrals for developmental emotional and behavioral concerns. This program doesn't give a diagnosis but helps families get connected to resources.
• Brain Gym ($75 - not billable through insurance): Brain Gym® is an international program committed to the principle that moving with intention leads to optimal learning. Brain Gym® features 26 easy movements, exercises, and activities that recall the movements naturally developed during the first years of life when the eyes, ears, hands, and whole body are coordinating. Brain Gym® develops the brain’s neural pathways the way nature does – through movement. For more information please click here!
• Classroom observations (Free within Smith County): Our Child Development Specialist (CDS) will come to your childcare center to do an observation. We discuss tips and techniques for the teacher and director. We also discuss things for the parents to do at home and sometimes provide further resources if necessary. Click here to learn more!
• Autism Education & Resources: A beneficial tool for parents and caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. The program provides resources, referrals and up-to-date information, while helping parents navigate the maze of available treatments, therapies, assessments, and diagnoses. Click here to learn more!
• Conferences and Trainings: Champions' employs four Child Development Specialists that provide evidence-based training and mentor teaching in best practices, behavior management and efficient operations for childcare providers. Private training for childcare centers is also available upon request. For more information, please click here.