Program Description
Each state receives money to help parents identify if their infant or toddler (birth through age two) is disabled. If a child is found to be experiencing any sort of developmental delay (cognitive, physical, communication, social, emotional or self-help), the state may then (at a minimum) provide the funds for evaluations and assessments, service coordination and the development and review of an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), which are available at no cost for eligible infants and toddlers with disabilities. Other early intervention services designed to meet the unique needs of the child may be provided on a fee-for-service or sliding fee scale on a state-by-state basis.
General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, a child must be under the age of three years and be experiencing some sort of developmental delay (cognitive, physical, communication, social, emotional or self-help). Please note: additional eligibility criteria vary by state. For specific information about your state's eligibility criteria, visit http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html.
Your Next Steps
The following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.
Application Process
For information on how to access services in your area, contact your state's Early Intervention Program Coordinator. The list of coordinators can be found at http://www.nectac.org/contact/ptccoord.asp.
Program Contact Information
Parent Centers are available in each state to provide training and information to parents and professionals working with children with disabilities. For more information about this resource, visit:
http://www.ed.gov/programs/osepgts/index.html
