The Early Intervention Program

What is this and what is it about?

The Early Intervention Program (EI) is a federally granted program run by individual categories beneath Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act designed for children born until they reach the age of three. It is also known as the Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Program. Although the program exists in all 50 states, the requirements to be approved for the program and types of services vary by state. The program is aimed at children who show a delay in cognitive, social, or communication skills. They may also have a delay in physical or motor skills or self-care skills.

Who can refer a child for early intervention services?

Anyone can refer a child to these services, such as:

• Pediatricians
• Parents
• Grandparents
• Child care providers

The child doesn’t even need a diagnosis. The Early Intervention Program team of specialists will test and evaluate the child to see if they qualify for the program.

Individualized Family Service Program

If, after the initial evaluation, your child is approved for the program, you will receive the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), which explains the recommended services for your child and how early intervention will help you and your family support your child.

Advantages offered by the service:

• Describe the current levels of your child’s development
• Tell about ways to improve your child’s development
• Report on the results you can expect
• Define the specific services you and your family will receive
• Describe the target date for starting and ending services

In addition, the Individualized Family Service will provide information on how the Early Intervention Program will help the child and family development to school services by the time the child turns 3. The individualized service program should take into account family values and should support family routines and priorities.