Early Intervention is an underused program that is state funded (free or low cost to families) that is available to children that are birth to three years old. There is a Child and Family Connections office in every county in Illinois, they coordinate the evaluations to see if a child is eligible for services, as well as connects them with a provider.
What makes a child eligible for Early Intervention Services?
- Under Three Years Old.
- Have a 30% delay in at least one area or domain of development.
- Have a condition that is known to cause a developmental delay or disability.
- Is high risk for a substantial developmental Delay.
What services are offered through Early Intervention?
- Service Coordinators, providing organization for the EI team and ensures family is having their needs met.
- Developmental Therapy, providing support for child development across all domains.
- Occupational Therapy, providing support and promoting the development in everyday routines, sensory integration and fine motor development.
- Physical Therapy, providing support for a child’s positioning, movement and coordination in family and community life.
- Speech and Language Pathology, providing support for a child’s language, communication and oral-motor development.
- Additional team members may include social workers, audiologists, behavior specialists, mental health professionals, nurses, nutritionists/dieticians, and psychologists.
Depending on your child’s needs they could be eligible for none, all, or some of the above listed services.
You do not need a doctor's referral for Early Intervention, you can refer yourself or be referred by a family member, friend, or a Licensed Early Intervention Specialist like myself. Please reach out to me at wyndowadvocacy@gmail.com if you have any questions.
McHenry County: Child & Family Connections | Options & Advocacy
Lake County: Child & Family Connections | Lake County, IL