Resources about early intervention

Every state has an Early Intervention Part C program to provide coordination,supports, resources, and services to enhance the development of children with delays and disabilities through everyday learning opportunities. Some services are provided at no cost to your family. Early intervention services are designed to:
  • Help your child stay on schedule with his or her communication skills and language development;
  • Enhance understanding of your child’s hearing loss and special communication needs;
  • Support your family in a way that helps you feel confident in raising your child with hearing loss;
  • Keep track of your child's progress and help you to make decisions for intervention and education each step of the way as your child develops.

Once your child is diagnosed with a hearing loss, a referral should be made to your local Early Intervention (Part C) Program. In some states, a child with hearing loss is automatically eligible for Part C services . Your local Early Intervention Program has 45 days from the date of your child’s referral to complete an eligibility evaluation, if needed. If your child is eligible for Early Intervention services, an assessment for program planning and an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) must also be developed within that 45 days. Your family will always be a part of this entire process, which is critical in determining your child’s strengths and needs, and in planning the best way to meet his/her needs.
Evaluation looks at these areas of development:
  • Cognitive –how your child learns
  • Physical – how your child moves, sees and hears
  • Communication – how your child understands language and expresses his/her needs
  • Social and emotional development – how your child interacts with adults and other children
  • Adaptive behavior – how your child adjusts to changes around him/her and masters daily skills
After the evaluation, you and the other members of the team will talk about what your child is doing and identify any concerns. If there are areas of delay, your child may be eligible for early intervention services. You have the choice to receive or not receive these services.
If a child is found eligible for Part C services, then qualified personnel conduct an assessment to help plan the services your child needs. Once your child is enrolled in services, ongoing assessment will help determine your child’s progress toward achieving outcomes and ensure that the services and supports you are receiving are helping your child make progress.
After the assessment, you and the other members of the team will meet to develop an IFSP that includes specific goals, outcomes, and services for both your child and your family. Most of these services should be delivered in your home or wherever your child spends his/her day.
Here are some tips:
  • Provide relevant information about your child including your child’s medical history. Share any necessary documents with the team, such as results from other testing.
  • Share the priorities and concerns your family has about your child’s development.
  • Be present for all assessments. You may choose a time and location that are convenient for you.
  • Invite other family members, a friend or support person if you wish.
  • Tell them if you need any interpreters or other assistance.
  • Ask questions so that you may understand the process and the program.
  • Get to known the service coordinator.
  • Be sure someone from the team explains your rights related to Part C services to you.

Even if your child is not qualified for Early Intervention, the Early Intervention team members will be able to guide you to other options.