In every state, very young kids can get early intervention help if they have developmental delays or specific health conditions.
Early intervention helps children meet developmental milestones through a wide range of services.
An evaluation can confirm whether your child is eligible
If you’re concerned your young child may have a developmental delay or learning and attention issues, you may be curious about early intervention services. Early intervention can help infants and toddlers make big strides. This overview explains the first steps you can take to help your child.
Early intervention services are a range of targeted services to help young children who have developmental delays or specific health conditions. Different types of specialists work with these kids. Providing services early helps children catch up and increases their chances for success in school and life overall.
“Providing services early helps children catch up and increases their chances for success in school and life overall.”
Early intervention services are provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Through grants to each state from the federal government, children who qualify may receive services free of charge or at low cost.
Every U.S. state and territory provides these services through its own comprehensive, coordinated program. There are also services that support the families who care for kids receiving early intervention services. Find out more about who pays for early intervention services.