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Early Interventions for Infants and Toddlers

Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA): Part C – Early Intervention program for infants and toddlers provides a broad array of services to children with special needs, birth through three years of age, and their families.  

Background 
Children grow and develop differently and at their own pace. The period from birth to age three is a critical time in a child's development and an important time for parents to have accurate information and consistent support close at hand.

Eligibility
Families who are eligible for services through the IDEA – Part C early intervention services include children ages birth to three years old who are experiencing developmental delays or who have a diagnosed condition that has a high probability of resulting in a developmental delay.

Services
IDEA – Part C early intervention services brings together families and service providers from many aspects of the community, including public and private agencies, parent child centers, local school districts, and private providers. Supports and services come together to meet each child's unique needs and the needs of their family in their home and community. Payment for services comes from a variety of sources, including insurance, Medicaid, participating agencies, local schools, family cost share, etc.

Early intervention services may include the following:

  • Audiology
  • Assistive Technology
  • Counseling/Psychological
  • Family training, counseling and home visits
  • Medical Evaluation (for diagnostic purposes only)
  • Nursing
  • Nutrition
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Service Coordination
  • Social Work
  • Special Instruction
  • Speech/Language
  • Transportation
  • Vision

Transition at Age Three
Some children will leave early intervention before or at age three and be part of community programs and activities without specialized supports or services. Others may continue to need support and may be eligible for Essential Early Education services through their local school district. Before a child turns three, parents and other members of the team plan for this transition. The service coordinator assists the family in gathering information about resources available and may serve as a link between early intervention services and other services which may be planned for as the child approaches his/her third birthday. The planning process begins at least three months before the child's third birthday so the family may become familiar with their public school's Essential Early Education personnel, private preschool opportunities and other options in their community.

Early Childhood Direction Center
Children's Hospital of Buffalo
936 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14209
716-878-7282 or 1-800-462-7653