What Is Early Intervention?

Family centered early intervention during the first three years of a child's life-- sometimes starting even before your newborn infant with special needs comes home from the hospital-- can make a profound difference in a child's future.

Early intervention is a system of coordinated services that promotes the child's growth and development and supports families during the critical early years. Early intervention services to eligible children and families are federally mandated through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The earlier children with or at risk of developmental delays receive assistance and the sooner their families receive support towards their children's development, the further they will go in life.

First Steps offers developmental therapies and related services to children, from birth to age three, who are developmentally delayed or at-risk for delay. Therapies are provided in the child's natural setting, such as home or day care facility. These services are at no cost, or low cost, to families. Any parent who has concern for their child's development may call the First Steps office and make a referral to have their child evaluated at no cost. Physicians, and others may also make referrals to the First Steps program. The goal of First Steps is to help Hoosier families make sure their infants and toddlers receive services now to help them in the future.

Babies Can't Wait!

Because all babies are different, they rarely do the same thing at exactly the same age. As a result, it's not unusual for families to have questions or concerns about their child's development. You may wonder:
Why isn't my child sitting up?
Why isn't my daughter crawling yet?
Why doesn't my son talk like other children his age?
It's important to keep in mind that all children develop differently and at their own pace. If you have questions or concerns about your child's development, call your health provider or local early intervention system.

Children And Families Come First In First Steps!