What are Early Intervention Programs?

When Liam was 18 months old, his parents noticed he wasn’t reaching certain milestones like his older sister had at the same age. They brought up their concerns at his well-child visit, and the pediatrician referred them for an early intervention evaluation. The evaluation revealed that Liam had delays in his language and motor skills development.

• Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP): The early intervention team worked with Liam’s parents to develop an IFSP, which outlined the specific services and supports Liam would receive to address his developmental delays.
• Speech therapy: Liam began attending weekly speech therapy sessions to help him develop his language and communication skills. The therapist taught Liam’s parents strategies they could use at home to encourage his language development.
• Physical therapy: Liam also received physical therapy to help improve his gross motor skills, such as crawling and walking. The therapist showed his parents exercises they could do with Liam to build his strength and coordination.

Thanks to early intervention, Liam made steady progress and was better prepared to transition to preschool when he turned three.