VIDBE-Q Volume 64 Issue 4
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data for the children within their program(s). Individual state and program
data is accessible by each administrator and can be used for program
decisions at any time.
A bigger, more diverse data pool will strengthen our field's ability to
obtain meaningful data that will inform the field for years to come. Barriers
to signing on new states have been identified, however. One barrier may
be due to individual states with different EI systems, including diverse
models of specialized VI services, and it has been difficult to find a
"champion" for Babies Count to partner. Also, EI/VI service providers with
large caseloads may balk at "one more thing" to do with families. While
these issues may pose barriers today, they are not insurmountable. Current
users of the registry report that completing the survey during a home visit
can enrich the exchange of information between parent and practitioner. It
can offer a platform for deeper discussion about the child including their
experiences in the early months and years, and help clarify the significance
of various factors in the child's life for both practitioner and family member.
Also, programs have found this level of information critical for funding
requests.
Imagine filling out a survey with a family to learn more about a baby's
first years. Sounds pretty easy, doesn't it? Now imagine the impact that
