EARLY START
Early Start is California's system of early intervention services provided to infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. It is a multiagency effort by the Department of Developmental Services and the California Department of Education that encourages partnerships between families and professionals, family support, and coordination of services. The statewide system of early intervention services is available throughout California and can be accessed through regional centers for developmental disabilities, county offices of education, local school districts, health or social service agencies, and family resource centers / networks in your community.
An important part of Early Start is the network of family resource centers and networks (FRC/Ns) that provide parent-parent contact, information about disabilities and early intervention, and assistance in accessing services. Phone contact, home or hospital visits, and support groups are all ways in which families might connect with experienced, knowledgeable parent "peers" through their local FRC/N.
WHAT ARE EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES?
Early intervention services are provided based on the developmental needs of the child, the concerns and priorities of the family, and the resources available to them. Services are provided within the context of the child and family's daily activities and routines. Eligible children and families may receive a variety of early intervention services; some children may need only one or two early intervention services. Early intervention services may include
- assistive technology, including devices or services
- audiology or hearing services
- family training, counseling, and home visits
- health services necessary for a child to benefit from other early intervention services
- medical services for diagnosis and evaluation only
- nursing services
- nutrition services
- occupational therapy
- physical therapy
- psychological services
- respite services
- service coordination (case management)
- social work services
- special instruction
- speech and language services
- transportation and related costs necessary for a child to receive services
- vision services
