Early Start
Families whose infants or toddlers have or are at risk for developmental delay or disability can receive an "Early Start" in the State of California. Teams of service coordinators, healthcare providers, early intervention specialists, therapists, and parent resource specialists can evaluate and assess an infant or toddler and provide appropriate early intervention services to children eligible for California's Early Intervention system of services.
Who is Eligible?
Infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months may be eligible for early intervention services if through documented evaluation and assessment they meet one of the criteria listed below:
- have a developmental delay in either cognitive, communication, social or emotional, adaptive, or physical and motor development including vision and hearing; or
- have established risk conditions of known etiology, with a high probability of resulting in delayed development; or
- are at high risk of having a substantial developmental disability due to a combination of risk factors.
What early intervention services are available?
Based on the child's assessed developmental needs and the families concerns and priorities as determined by each child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) team, early intervention services may include:
- assistive technology
- family training, counseling, and home visits
- occupational therapy
- physical therapy
- special instruction
- speech and language services
- vision services
- and more...
Who provides services?
Early intervention services that are needed for each eligible infant or toddler are purchased or arranged by a regional center or a local education agency.
DG Therapy provides Early Start services. Give us a call at 562-693-5449 for more details.
More information about California Early Start is available from:
California Department of Developmental Services
1600 Ninth Street
P. O. Box 944202
Sacramento, CA 94244-2020
Info: (916) 654-1690
TTY: (916) 654-2054
www.dds.ca.gov/EarlyStart/WhatsES.cfm
