Early Intervention Services

Development evaluation of gross motor (sitting, crawling, walking), fine motor (using arms, hands), communication (talking, understanding words), adaptive (eating, dressing), social (relationships with others), and cognitive (learning) skills. This evaluation determines eligibility for services.

All team members contribute to the Individual Family Support Plan. YOU are an extremely important member of your child’s team. An Individual Family Support Plan is what you and your team make to address your child’s needs across all areas. “Goals” are set for the year in each area and “benchmarks” are set for different points in the year. Goals and objectives are based on where your child is at the time of the evaluation and usually look to gain the next step in your child’s development. Objectives are evaluated and changed throughout the year as appropriate. This would become an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) when your child transitions to the Department of Education if he or she qualifies for special education.

Direct services including Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Special Education Instruction.

Occupational Therapists work to help your child develop what is called “fine motor control.” The focus is on small muscles that are used to pick-up, hold, and use things like bottles, utensils, crayons, etc. Occupational Therapists may recommend modifications and or adaptive tools to assist your child with these skills. Sensory needs may also be addressed.

 Speech-Language Pathologists work with your child to develop language skills and correct speech errors (making sounds that are different than expected for the developmental level of your child. Please note that some speech errors are appropriate for children aged 3 and under.) Speech-Language Pathologists may also introduce other ways for your child to communicate (pictures or Assistive Communication Devices, for example) if appropriate.

Physical Therapists work with what is called “gross motor skills.” They work with the “big muscles” to help a child learn how to move their body independently so they can explore their world whether that’s rolling crawling or walking. Physical Therapists work on body positioning and alignment as children learn to balance without hand support and use both hands to play. Sometimes assistive devices are used like ankle supports, standers or gait trainers. We may help your child with other assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs when developmentally appropriate.

 Special Educators work on helping your child develop early “pre-academic” skills.

Care Coordinators work with families and caregivers to address concerns and priorities, to identify resources, and to coordinate services.

Support services referrals for additional support services such as assistive technology, vision services, audiology services, and intensive behavioral support.