What Is Early Intervention
Early intervention is a federally mandated program under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that provides therapeutic and developmental services to infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) identified with developmental delays or disabilities. Unlike special education services in schools, early intervention is family-centered, meaning services occur in natural environments like your home, childcare setting, or community locations.
Each state operates its own early intervention system with different names. In New York it's called Early Intervention Services, in California it's Regional Centers, and in Texas it's the Early Childhood Intervention program. Regardless of the name, all programs must follow federal guidelines that require a comprehensive evaluation, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), and coordination with your childcare provider if your child is enrolled.
How Services Work
Early intervention begins with a developmental screening or referral. If your child shows delays in speech, motor skills, cognitive development, social-emotional growth, or adaptive behaviors, you can contact your state's early intervention coordinator (typically at your local health department). Evaluation is free in all states.
If your child qualifies, you'll develop an IFSP with a team that includes your family, an early intervention coordinator, and relevant specialists. The IFSP documents specific goals, which services your child needs (speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or developmental services), how often they occur, and where. Most services happen 1 to 3 times per week, with sessions typically lasting 30 to 60 minutes.
Your childcare provider plays a direct role. Federal regulations require early intervention staff to share information with your provider and coordinate services so they reinforce learning across settings. NAEYC-accredited programs are required to have documented communication protocols with families accessing early intervention services.
Funding and Costs
Early intervention is free or low-cost. Evaluations are always free. Services may be covered through insurance, CCDF subsidies (if you receive childcare assistance), state early intervention funding, or a combination. Your state may bill private insurance as a secondary payer, but cost should never be a barrier to participation.
Licensing and Provider Requirements
Early intervention providers must meet state credentialing requirements, which vary by discipline. Speech-language pathologists must hold a Certificate of Clinical Competence; physical and occupational therapists must be licensed. Your childcare center's licensed staff should be trained to implement strategies recommended in the IFSP. Some states require childcare licensing rules to address how programs accommodate children receiving early intervention services.
Common Questions
- Does early intervention affect my child's record or daycare placement? No. Early intervention participation is confidential and protected under FERPA. Childcare providers cannot discriminate or remove a child based on receiving services, though they must accommodate therapist visits and implement recommended strategies.
- What if I disagree with the evaluation results? You can request an independent evaluation at no cost if you disagree with the IFSP team's assessment. You also have the right to bring an advocate or lawyer to IFSP meetings.
- What happens when my child turns 3? Services transition to your school district's preschool special education program (Part B of IDEA). The early intervention program must facilitate a transition meeting to ensure continuity of services.