The Early Intervention Program

Education for all handicapped Children Act Law was passed in 1975. This law states that all school age children, including children with disabilities are guaranteed a free and appropriate public education. Ten years later, an amendment of that law gave a choice to states nationwide to set up a comprehensive program. The Early Intervention Program, for infants and toddlers under three years of age with disabilities and their families.

The Early Intervention Program provides a wide variety of services to eligible infants and toddlers with disabilities. It is a program imperative to help a child reach their full potential ability beginning in the early years of life. Services include, full screening and assessment services, family training, counseling, physical therapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy, psychological services and assistive technology devices. All services are usually received in a home environment or community setting such as a day care facility. Funding for the Early Intervention Program is provided by the state the child resides. It is offered to families in all socioeconomic categories.

When a child is suspected of a developmental delay or diagnosed with a physical or mental condition the has a high probability of resulting in a physical or cognitibe delay, communication delay or lacks self-help skills, your child's pediatrician will then give a referral to an early intervention official. This will be your service coordinator. Their job is to explain the Early Intervention Program, organize a list of facilities for child's evaluations, and arrange specific meetings regarding child's developmenmt. Remember, as the parent, you will have the authority and directly be involved in decision making and the final say so to what you feel your child's needs are. YOU ARE STILL THE #1 ADVOCATE!

Once a program facility is chosen, thorough evaluations are performed by professional health care providers. In all areas of communication, physical ability and cognitive ability (thought process). Next, a meeting is set up with all professionals involved to discuss what type of program is beneficial for your child. Each health care provider will inform you of your child's testing performance and projected goals and plans. With your agreement, your child will begin an Early Intervention Program assigned for them. Reassessment of your child's progress will be every six months.

When there is a risk to infants born premature or a child is born with a specific handicap and you are concerned for your child's future, reach out for help and make your dreams for your child become a reality.

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