Navigating the Early Intervention Program

Here is your Parents’ Guide to Navigating the Illinois Early Intervention Program 

Early action yields best results! Each state has an Early Intervention program tailored to providing services and support for babies and young children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families. These services include, but are not limited to, speech and language (including feeding) therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, developmental therapy, social work, nutrition, nursing, vision, and many more depending on your child’s needs. 

How do I know if my child needs Early Intervention? 

Typically, eligibility is determined based on an evaluation of your child’s skills and abilities. Certain diagnoses, such as Down Syndrome, are qualifying diagnoses, indicating the child is automatically eligible for services, and the exact services are determined at the evaluation date. 

What is the process? 

Once your child is determined to be eligible (which is automatic with the diagnosis of Down Syndrome) the hospital or doctor will fill out a referral form for the Child, Family, and Connections Center (CFC) in your county. You will be contacted by a service coordinator—this is like a case manager who will be your point of contact and manage all the information throughout your time in this program. Within 45 days of the referral date, you will have a evaluation with the recommended disciplines and your service coordinator in your home. You will develop your child’s Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) at this evaluation and outline the services, as well as the frequency of services. The date your child will transition out of the program will also be discussed. Per the Illinois State program, children “age” out of the program upon turning 3 years old (unless discharged sooner) and are then transitioned into their local school district’s early learning center or whatever the family/team determines is best! 

You can also request a parent liaison! This is a parent of a child who has already been through the Early Intervention Program. They are a great support system as they can listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have.

What if I want more/fewer services? 

Your child will be re-assessed annually by the team to determine progress. At this time, you can request changes in frequency of a specific therapy. In addition, this is a great time to request a new therapy your child could benefit from. If you have concerns prior to the annual assessment, you can call your service coordinator at ANY time to set up an evaluation with the specific discipline. Your therapy team may also make suggestions during your time together. Be open to these conversations! While only the six-month and annual meetings are mandated you can meet with your team as often as you’d like to discuss progress and any concerns. 

Additional questions?  

Check out: https://eiclearinghouse.org/resources/getting-started/  

Contact: (800) 323-4769 

And of course, feel free to contact your pediatrician or myself (Taylor Kent) to provide you with more information and answer your questions or concerns. That’s what we are here for!!