INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES

What is Early Intervention?

It is a program that all states and jurisdictions in the United Sates sponsor to help children and families support, encourage and meet the developmental needs of their children from birth until the age of three. 

Who is eligible for Early Intervention?

Any child that is birth through two years of age that is not developing as expected or has a health condition that is effecting his or her development. A developmental evaluation may be needed to determine if your child is eligible for early intervention services.

How do I find out more about Early Intervention?

1. Call the 24 Child Find Phone Line at: 202-727-8300
2. You can call the DC Early Intervention program in the Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Division directly at: 202-727-3665
3. Contact Rachel Brady at the Georgetown Center for Child and Human Development by phone 202-687-8628 or email rab9@georgetown.edu
4. Visit the DC Public Schools website and click on "Child Find"

What happens after I call?

Your child will receive a developmental evaluation to determine if he or she is eligible for early intervention services and what type of services he or she might need.

If your child is eligible and needs services, a coordinated plan is made with you and a team of service providers for your child. This plan is called the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Goals for the child are written and the types of services to meet the goals are chosen.

What are the costs?
The developmental evaluation is free to families. If a child needs early intervention services, they can be paid for by Medicaid, Private Health Insurance, families (based on income) or the Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Division as a last resort.