Early education resources

Concerned about your child’s development? Act Early!
 
If you’re concerned that a child may have a delay or disability, it’s important to refer them for Early Intervention as soon as possible. Early Intervention can address all types of concerns, like crawling or walking, speech delays, or social interaction like playing with other children.
 
Early Intervention is available in every part of the state and to any eligible child, regardless of the family’s income.

There is no “down side” to referring a child for Early Intervention services. Research shows that starting services early gives a child the best chance to learn and grow. Early support can reduce the need for services later in life. In fact, it is more cost effective to provide Early Intervention than to wait until the child is older.

Every child is unique, and services are designed based on a child's specific needs. Children learn best through everyday experiences and routines in places they know, so services support families where they live, play and spend their day. Virtual options may also be available.

Pregnant women and families with young children.Supporting first-time parents with home visiting services for children up to 3 years old

Once your family has been referred, you will be assigned a home visitor, who will provide caring support and reliable information on the topics that matter most to you about your pregnancy and child’s development. Whether it’s what you can do to strive for a healthy pregnancy; how to soothe your crying baby; how to manage sleep (yours included!); or how to deal with the stresses of parenting; your home visitor is there to help, listen to your concerns, and connect you to community resources based off of your needs. We invest in you to make your own decisions about what is best for you and your child.

Healthy birth outcomes - Pregnant women who participated in Home Visiting had 48 percent fewer low birth weight babies. Source.

Increasing children’s school readiness - Children who participated in Home Visiting scored 25 percent higher on first through third grade reading and math achievement tests. Source.