Are you interested in finding early intervention resources in your state? If you think your child needs early intervention services, you’ll be happy to know that most states offer these services. The big task is finding the resources and utilizing them as they were meant to be used. Here are some ways to find early intervention services in your state.
Know the Age Group
Early intervention is often classified for children who are between the ages of 0-3. If your child is between those ages, you will have a better chance of findings services for them.
Ask for a Referral
If you are unfamiliar with the services offered in your state, talk to your pediatrician about a referral. They will know everything there is to know about early intervention programs in your area. Sometimes these programs do require a referral from your doctor anyways.
Go Through the State
Most early intervention programs for ages 0-3 are a division of the state. You can do a quick search on your state’s website to see what options are available through the state. For example: Ohio’s early intervention program is called “Help Me Grow.” Chances are your state also has one of these programs. You can start your search by heading to Google and typing in “Early Intervention Programs in (Insert Your State).
Ask Lots of Questions
Most of the early intervention programs are well put into place and they know what they’re doing. However, just like some government run agencies, you will need to ask lots of questions and keep track of what you’ve done and who you have talked to.
Wait for a Phone Call/Follow Up if Necessary
After you’ve contacted the early intervention resources in your state, wait for them to call. If you haven’t heard from them, it’s okay to follow up with a phone call. Sometimes following up is the only way to get the information you need and get things rolling again.
Getting your child the early intervention help they need is well worth the wait, the phones calls, and the evaluation they’ll receive. Even if there’s not a delay in your child and they do not need services, you will have peace of mind.
Also, keep in mind that you can be an advocate for other parents. If you know someone who needs help, offer them the process you went through. Give them the numbers for the resources you have obtained.
If you’ve gone through this process before, are there any tips you can offer other parents?