Getting Help Early: Support for Your Young Child’s Development.
Is your young child (ages 0-5) facing challenges with talking, learning, or behavior? You’re not alone, and help is available.
What is Early Intervention?
Early intervention means getting support for your child as soon as you notice they might need extra help. The earlier children receive support, the better they do in school and life. Think of it like watering a plant when it’s young – it grows stronger and healthier.
Signs Your Child Might Benefit from Early Support
Ages 18 months - 3 years:
• Not talking or using very few words
• Frequent tantrums or meltdowns
• Difficulty following simple directions
• Trouble playing with toys appropriately
• Avoiding eye contact or social interaction
Ages 3-5 years:
• Hard to understand when speaking
• Difficulty sitting still or paying attention
• Trouble making friends or playing with others
• Struggles with potty training or self-care
• Very rigid routines or gets upset with changes
Types of Early Support Services
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy
Terapia de Análisis de Comportamiento Aplicado (ABA)
ABA therapy helps children learn new skills and positive behaviors through fun, play-based activities. Therapists work with your child one-on-one to:
• Improve communication and language
• Reduce challenging behaviors like tantrums
• Teach daily living skills (eating, dressing, potty training)
• Help with social skills and making friends
La terapia ABA ayuda a los niños a aprender nuevas habilidades y comportamientos positivos a través de actividades divertidas basadas en el juego.
What to expect: Sessions usually happen in your home, at a clinic, or in your child’s preschool. Parents learn strategies to use throughout the day.
Developmental Assessments
These are like check-ups for your child’s development. A specialist will:
• Observe how your child plays, communicates, and learns
• Identify your child’s strengths and areas that need support
• Create a plan with specific goals
• Connect you with the right services and resources.
What to expect: The assessment takes 1-3 hours and includes playing with toys, simple tasks, and questions about your child’s daily routines.
Early Childhood Specialists
These professionals have special training to work with young children and include:
• Speech therapists - Help with talking and understanding language
• Occupational therapists - Help with fine motor skills and daily activities
• Developmental specialists - Work on overall growth and learning
• Family coordinators - Help you navigate services and support
How to Get Started
Step 1: Talk to Your Pediatrician
Share your concerns with your child’s doctor. They can refer you to specialists and help determine what services might be helpful.
Step 2: Contact Your Regional Center
• Under age 3: Services are often free through Early Start programs
• Ages 3-5: Contact your local school district for evaluation
• All ages: Regional Centers provide assessments and services
Step 3: Explore Private Options
Many families use insurance or pay privately for services. Most major insurance plans cover developmental therapies.
What Parents Say About Early Intervention
“I was worried my son wasn’t talking at 2 years old. After just 6 months of therapy, he’s using sentences and so much happier!”
• Maria, mother of 3-year-old
“The therapist taught us simple strategies to help with meltdowns. Now our whole family feels more confident.”
• David, father of 4-year-old
Common Questions
Q: Will services label my child or hurt their future?
A: No. Early intervention actually improves your child’s chances of success. Services are confidential and designed to help children reach their full potential.
Q: How long will my child need services?
A: Every child is different. Some need support for a few months, others for several years. The goal is always to help your child become as independent as possible.
Q: What if I can’t afford services?
A: Many services are free or low-cost. Regional Centers, Early Start programs, and school districts provide services at no cost to families who qualify.
Take Action Today
Trust your instincts. If you’re concerned about your child’s development, seeking help early is always the right choice. The sooner children receive support, the more progress they can make.
You are your child’s best advocate. No one knows your child better than you do. Your observations and concerns are important and valid.
Help is available. There are caring professionals ready to support you and your child on this journey.
Ready to learn more about early intervention services in your area? Visit our Family Resources section to find local providers, or contact us for personalized help connecting with the right support for your child.
¿Listo para aprender más sobre los servicios de intervención temprana en su área? Visite nuestra sección de Recursos Familiares para encontrar proveedores locales, o contáctenos para ayuda personalizada para conectarse con el apoyo adecuado para su hijo.
Remember: Getting help early is one of the best gifts you can give your child.
