What Is the Early Start Program?

The Early Start program is California's comprehensive early intervention system for infants and toddlers from birth to 3 years old. It is designed for families whose toddlers have a developmental delay or are at a high risk of having a developmental disability. The program is family-centered, meaning it involves parents and caregivers as active partners in their toddler's development.

Who Is Eligible?

A toddler may be eligible for Early Start if they have:

• A developmental delay of at least 25% in one or more areas, such as cognitive, communication, social-emotional, or physical development.

• An established risk condition, such as Down syndrome or cerebral palsy, which has a high probability of leading to a developmental delay.

What Services Does Early Start Provide?

Once a toddler is found eligible, a team works with the family to create an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). This plan outlines the services the toddler will receive, which can include: 

• Speech and Language Therapy

• Physical or Occupational Therapy

• Specialized Instruction

• Family Training and Counseling

• Assistive Technology Services

The goal is to provide services in "natural environments," such as the toddler's home or a community setting, to help them develop skills during their daily routines.

How to Get Started with Early Start

The point of entry into the system is the regional center that serves your area. Anyone, including parents, doctors, or caregivers, can make a referral.

1. Contact Your Local Regional Center: You can call the Early Start BabyLine at (800) 515-BABY (2229) to be connected to your local regional center.

2. Request an Evaluation: Once you make contact, a service coordinator will be assigned to guide you through a free evaluation to determine your toddler's eligibility. This entire process, from referral to the start of services, is designed to be completed within 45 days.

   
   

Why Early Intervention is So Important

The first three years of life are a period of rapid brain development. By addressing developmental delays as early as possible, the Early Start program can help toddlers build essential skills and, in many cases, reduce the need for more intensive services later in life. Getting help early can make a tremendous difference for your toddler's long-term success.

Sources

•  https://www.dds.ca.gov/services/early-start/

•  https://www.nlacrc.org/consumers-families/early-start/

•  https://earlystartneighborhood.org/

•  https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/