WHAT DO DIRECT SUPPORT PROVIDERS DO?
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO BECOME A DSP?
TRAININGS TO BECOME A CAREGIVER FOR DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED
WHERE DO DIRECT SUPPORT PROVIDERS PROVIDE CARE?
Direct Support Providers (DSP's) provide care in many different places. They can support people in their home or in their community. It all depends on what is needed.
WHAT IS THE WORK LIKE?
This is what Direct Support Providers say about their work:
"She told me I had a knack for caring for others. I like to care for people and that is satisfying to me." Dawn H., caregiver for 7 years.
"Words can't describe it... I rejoice with my customer in the progress that he makes." Steven W., direct support professional for 3 years.
"This training is the greatest thing that ever happened to me. I love this job." Shirley W., caregiver first year.
"You have to be very kind and good... and I just love it!" Peggy Jo M., direct care worker for 5 years.
"Something that keeps me here is that I love the people I work with... I want to see them and their smiles." Maria P., 3 years.
"This job helps me have a purposeful life. I don't feel like I'm punching a clock." Mark F., direct care worker, 14 years.
"What I most like about this job is that I get to feel very special because I know I'm needed." Mary Lou O., direct support professional for 6 years.
"I am so happy I found this career. I want to learn more..." Joan L., caregiver, first year.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD NEEDS EARLY INTERVENTION?
You know your child best. If you have concerns about how your child:
- Plays and interacts with others
- Learns
- Communicates
- Moves
- Sees
- Hears
Research tells us that the first three years of a child’s life are critical years for learning. Early care and education have a long-lasting impact on how children develop. During a child’s first three years, it is important to focus on a child’s developmental needs and take advantage of your child’s natural ability to learn.
For more information, you can go to AzEIP’s website www.azdes.gov/AzEIP or contact AzEIP at (602) 532-9960 or (888) 439-5609