Early intervention services are special services for infants and toddlers and their families. These services are designed to identify and meet children’s needs in five developmental areas. These areas are:

• physical development;

• cognitive development;

• communication;

• social or emotional development; and

• adaptive development.
  

Early intervention services are an effective way to address the needs of infants and toddlers who have developmental delays or disabilities. The services are made available through a federal law known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA provides states and territories with specific requirements for providing early intervention services to infants and toddlers with special needs. In turn, each state and territory develops its own policies for carrying out IDEA and its requirements.

Under IDEA, a complete evaluation of the child is necessary to decide whether he or she is eligible for early intervention services. (source: NICHCY)

“If your child is diagnosed with autism, early intervention is critical to gain maximum benefit from existing therapies. Although parents may have concerns about labeling a toddler as "autistic," the earlier the diagnosis is made, the earlier interventions can begin. Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism, no fully effective treatments, and no cure. Research indicates, however, that early intervention in an appropriate educational setting for at least two years during the preschool years can result in significant improvements for many young children with autism spectrum disorders. As soon as autism is diagnosed, early intervention instruction should begin. Effective programs focus on developing communication, social, and cognitive skills.” (source: Autism Speaks)

In our state, Early On® Michigan is the system of early intervention services for infants and toddlers, birth to three years of age, with disabilities or delays, and their families. Early On is supported by funding from Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) through the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Early Childhood Education and Family Services. Early On ensures that eligible children and families receive comprehensive, collaborative, family-centered, strength-based services. Early On supports families as families help their children to learn and grow. To learn more or to refer a child, visit http://www.1800earlyon.org/.

Resources

A Parent’s Guide: Finding Help for Young Children with Disabilities

For a list of developmental milestones from Early On Michigan, visit http://www.1800earlyon.org/Resources/Health/Development.php.

First Signs is a website dedicated to the early identification and intervention of children with developmental delays and disorders.

To find an Early Intervention Coordinator in your state, visit http://www.nectac.org/contact/ptccoord.asp.

Autism Speaks list of Treatments for Autism

Centers for Disease Control’s Autism Information Center

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