Interrelation Assessment Tool for Planning Improvement in Early Intervention

People develop and grow throughout their lifespan within the community, engaging in a dynamic two-way process that drives mutual change. Bronfenbrenner`s ecological systems theory highlights that individuals are intrinsically connected to their communities, deeply embedded within them. This interaction not only shapes individuals but also enables them to influence the surrounding system in return.

When addressing the development of a child with a disorder, understanding key interactions in the individual`s life can be invaluable. An Ecomap serves as a practical tool to evaluate the quality of relationships by assessing the strengths and weaknesses within an individual`s ecosystem. It can play a significant role in crafting a tailored plan for Early Intervention.

This qualitative study explores the benefits of using an Ecomap for a three-year-old boy diagnosed with a developmental language disorder and enrolled in an early communication intervention program. Through an analysis of the strengths and challenges within the child’s family, community, available services, and professional support, improvement measures were recommended to the parents. Additionally, follow-up observations documented the child’s progress over time.

The development of an Ecomap as a data collection tool in planning Early Intervention strategies can enhance natural environments for better learning, increase satisfaction, and ensure the recognition of individual needs, ultimately contributing to an improved quality of life.

Key words: Eco Map, early Intervention, Developmental Language Disorder

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Golubović, Š.(2018). Rana intervencija u detinjstvu. Medicinski fakultet.Novi Sad

Bennett, J., & Grant, N. S. (2016). Using an Ecomap as a Tool for Qualitative Data Collection in Organizations. New Horizons in Adult Education and Human Resource Development, 28(2), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1002/nha3.20134