The Family Infant Preschool Program (FIPP) of the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Centerprovides supports and resources towomen who are pregnant, children from birth through five years of age with identified intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in western North Carolina. Resources and services include:
-Child developmental evaluation and assessment
-Child psychological services
-Early childhood health and development screening
-Early childhood education or special education
-Family support
-Medical supports including nursing services; therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech; Infant and child mental health services
-Assistive technology supports and services
-Neonatal follow-up care
-Parenting Education
FIPP provides early intervention services in Alexander, Burke,Caldwell, Catawba, and McDowell Counties through a contract with the Morganton/Hickory Children’s Developmental Service Agency. FIPP also operates an Early Head Start program in Alexander, Burke, andCaldwellCountieswith 6 infant-toddler classrooms, 3 Family Resource Centers, and home visiting supports for 200 children and families.
FIPP works in partnership with families using family-centered practices, based on respect for families' beliefs and values, as well as their cultural and ethnic backgrounds. FIPP research is conducted as part of the Center for the Advanced Study of Excellence in Early Childhood and Family Support Practices.
FIPP is recognized as one of ten National Centers of Excellence in Early Childhood by the Office of Head Start.