Early Intervention & Safety

As an early intervention (EI) speech-language pathologist, I provide services in the community, which is one of the BEST parts of my job. I have the awesome opportunity to nurture and facilitate a  understanding and language learning experience for children and their families in their natural environments... their homes... using their toys and their daily routines as a baseline and resource for treatment plans.  The communities I serve are diverse and unique, and often provide insight to the culture and community resources and activities available to the child and their family. In addition to this, it also reminds me to remain aware of my surroundings no matter how safe the neighborhood appears to be or how comfortable I am in the neighborhood. I have listed 5 safety tips that I abide by daily to help keep me safe as an EI provider. Stay safe :)

1. Don't go in your trunk: If someone sees you going into your trunk, they may get the impression that you have several items of value, monetary or otherwise. Try to remember to retrieve all materials necessary for your sessions prior to leaving your home or arriving at your destination. I personally hardly ever use toys of my own, due to trying to implement and imbed strict naturalistic routines and environmental objects into my session.
2. Blend in:  Make sure not to wear flashy jewelry or clothing. Wearing inconspicuous clothing, makes it appear as though you are apart of the community and not an outsider.
3. Be aware of your surroundings: Always look up the address prior to your initial visit and do research on the neighborhood before going. Make sure to review parking rules, crimes in the area, school dismissal times (as this can sometimes add chaos), hospitals nearby, etc. Try not to walk and talk on the phone or text while walking or talking. Do not sit in your car to do paperwork, make phone calls, etc. in a neighborhood where you feel unsafe. Schedule your appointments accordingly (try not to schedule appointments after 4:30 PM in the winter months and after 8:00 PM in summer months)
4. Trust your instincts: If you pull up to the home or get into the home, and feel unsafe or uneasy, trust your instincts and do not get out of the car and/or reschedule the appointment. For example, if an argument ensues while your are in the home between the family members...reschedule!
5. Keep your car clean & clear: Do not under any circumstances leave any items on the seats of your car or in plain view. Always lock your doors and windows, even when sitting idle to work on paperwork and/or make phone calls.