Below are resources for providers and staff working with Interpreters and Translators in the Illinois Early Intervention system. If you are an Interpreter or Translator, you may also like our Resources for Interpreters/Translators.
The page contains the following resources:
This training provides an overview of what it means to work with interpreters and translators in the Illinois Early Intervention System. Participants will learn about the role of interpreters and translators as well as tips and strategies for working with interpreters, such as the importance of proper positioning. This training includes a great deal of information that could be beneficial to anyone working as an early interventionist who seeks a better understanding of the role of the interpreter and translator in the IL EI System. Interpreters/Translators may also choose to view this course to expand their knowledge about the working relationship they have with early interventionists.
This site allows you to search for Interpreters in your area who have passed the enrollment and credentialing process for Illinois Early Intervention. Select "Languages" from the top drop-down menu and then enter your county and language needed for services.
Good interpreters are invaluable resources for early interventionists since many of the providers do not share the client's language and cultural background. Developing and maintaining positive relationships with individuals who can help bridge the gap between families and interventionists is critically important for effective communication. This site includes tips for helping develop those relationships.
Developed as a companion to the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) by Brookes Publishing, this handy, visual guide helps remind service coordinators and providers about best practices for using an interpreter. Also available in Spanish: Lista de mejores prácticas cuando se utiliza un intérprete (pdf)
In this video, you will learn some basic tips that will allow you to communicate effectively and easily through an interpreter with a person who doesn't speak your language.
This blog post from the Early Intervention Strategies for Success Blog discusses the challenges and tips for successful collaborations with Interpreters and Translators. The post includes a 5-minute video about successfully collaborating with interpreters and translators.
EITP Resource Modules:
To receive credit for viewing these modules, please register and complete the modules in our "Working with Interpreters/Translators in Illinois" training within our online learning system.
"Working with Interpreters/Translators in Illinois"
"Working with Interpreters/Translators" for a national audience
Related EITP Resources Pages:
These tip sheets are easy-to-read, one-page resources on a range of topics for parents and teachers of young children. All tip sheets are available in English and Spanish (Español)! Most tip sheets are available in Polish. Selected tip sheets are available in Korean, Chinese, Arabic, Russian, and French.
Developed by the Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse (2025), this guide introduces statewide interpretation service available through a partnership with Language Line Services, Inc. to provide digital on-demand interpretation services for the Illinois Early Intervention System, when there are no credentialed early intervention interpreters available and a family communicates in a language other than English. This collection of information, including downloadable PDFs, online videos, and web resources, is available to assist Service Coordinators, other Child & Family Connections (CFCs) staff, and EI providers.
