In March, I had the privilege of attending the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Act Early Ambassador training in Atlanta, GA. This annual gathering serves as a vital platform for Act Early Ambassadors from across the nation to convene, exchange insights and deepen their understanding of developmental monitoring. Stepping into a room filled with seasoned professionals in the field, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension as a newcomer to the Ambassador role.

Twenty years of “Learn the Signs. Act Early.”
The “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program is celebrating 20 years! There was a lot of celebrating at the training – over the past two decades, this program has made remarkable strides in raising awareness about developmental milestones and the importance of early intervention. Among the milestones highlighted was the staggering achievement of over 2 million downloads of the Milestone Tracker app, coupled with approximately 1 million monthly web visits. Furthermore, the program has expanded to encompass 63 Act Early Ambassadors nationwide, each playing a crucial role in their respective communities.

One of the most enriching aspects of the training was the opportunity to engage with fellow Ambassadors and experts in the field. Through panel discussions, powerful presentations and breakout sessions, we explored a myriad of strategies for integrating “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” resources into a variety of sectors ranging from health care to Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The wealth of knowledge and experiences shared by participants fostered a dynamic learning environment, sparking new ideas and collaborations.

Act Early Wisconsin
As the Act Early Ambassador to Wisconsin, I feel a deep sense of pride in the longstanding commitment of our state to the “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program. Through collaborative efforts and dedicated outreach initiatives, Wisconsin has a long history of disseminating essential developmental monitoring resources. The training provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on our state’s program journey, while exploring avenues for further impact.

Leaving the training, I felt invigorated and empowered with a renewed sense of purpose. The insights gained and connections made during the event, have equipped me with the tools and inspiration to continue advocating for early developmental monitoring in my community. Whether through educational workshops, outreach campaigns, or collaborations with local stakeholders, I am committed to advancing the mission of “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” and ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive.

Let’s connect!
Interested in learning how “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” materials can support developmental monitoring in your profession? Connect with Morgan Conti today!


Written by:
Morgan Conti
Program Manager, Medical Home