Early intervention is a therapeutic program that helps babies and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and gives the child goal-directed inputs. Early intervention focuses on helping eligible babies and toddlers learn the basic and brand-new skills that typically develop during the first three years of life, such as:

 

• physical (reaching, rolling, crawling, and walking);

• cognitive (thinking, learning, solving problems);

• communication (talking, listening, understanding);

• social/emotional (playing, feeling secure and happy); and

• self-help (eating, dressing).

 

Examples of early intervention services | who is involved with early intervention:

 

• Assistive technology (devices a child might need)

• Audiology or hearing services

• Speech and language services

• Counseling and training for a family

• Medical services

• Nursing services

• Nutrition services

• Occupational therapy

• Physical therapy

• Psychological services

 

why is early intervention important?

 

• The brain develops significantly during this peiod and creates pathways as skills develop.  Early inputs can help to create these paths optimally. The biggest difference can be made during this time as the development of the pathways can be influenced.

• If the correct patterns are being formed early, a strong foundation is laid for the future.

• If a physical disability is present, 'normal' movement patterns can be encouraged and the brain can create new pathways in order to enable the child to function as independently as possible.

• Developmental disorders such as cerebral palsy and autism, can be identified early which increases efficacy of therapy.

 

Services may also be provided to address the needs and priorities of the child’s family. Family-directed services are meant to help family members understand the special needs of their child and how to enhance his or her development at home!