How To Get Started
From birth to age 5 years, children should reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak and act. Each child grows and changes at their own rate, but some children have delays in development.
Children under age 3, the Early Intervention Unit is the first place to contact for information. Hospitals, physicians, specialists, caregivers, and families may contact the program at 610-344-5948 or electronically by clicking this link – EI Online Referral.
Child Early Intervention & MH Services Map Supplement - en Espanol
A Service Coordinator will be assigned to support the family as the primary contact with the program. The service coordinator will contact the family to gather information regarding the developmental concerns and to explain the early intervention services system including the evaluation process, eligibility criteria, and service delivery.
You and Your Service Coordinator
A Family’s Introduction to Early Intervention in Pennsylvania – en Espanol
After a child is determined eligible for EI services, the Service Coordinator works with the family and other team members to develop a written plan describing the services and supports the child will receive.
The IFSP is based on the child’s strengths and the family’s concerns and priorities. The plan reflects home routines, family activities, community activities, and other natural learning opportunities. The plan emphasizes services in “natural environments” or settings that are common and normal for children of the same age but without disabilities.
Outcomes or goals are developed with the family and providers based on what is important to the family with information about their daily routines. Together with your child’s provider you will identify strategies, or easy things that can be done by you and other caregivers to support your child’s learning and development.
The role of the EI provider is to coach and support parents and other caregivers to help the child learn.
What are EI Services and Supports?