Emergency Services: 540-373-6876

Early Intervention

The earliest years are exciting, filled with many firsts: Smiles, words, steps. When your child’s development is atypical, it can feel scary and lonely. 

As parents of tiny tikes, you’re surrounded by celebrations of milestones, questions about your baby’s new skills, and lots of well-meaning advice. Worrying about missed milestones or atypical development can make you feel isolated and even hopeless. 

It’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many babies and toddlers develop differently. And, we’re here to help you determine if your baby needs extra support. 

And, if you do need extra support, our early intervention program offers a range of services aimed to minimize any developmental delays. 

 

illustration of father holding toddler in air

FAQ

What is early intervention?

Early intervention helps infants and toddlers with developmental delays and atypical development. We know that the earlier we can address concerns, the better the outcomes. 

Early intervention services include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, developmental services, and support coordination. Your child may qualify for early intervention if they have a developmental delay, have atypical developmental skills, have been diagnosed with a disability or if they’re likely to develop one due to a medical diagnosis.

Early intervention services can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills and overcome challenges and can increase success in school and life.

Why does early intervention matter?

Babies’ brains make connections faster during the first three years than at any other time.  Supporting development durign this time can have a huge impact. Research shows that 1 in 3 children who receive early intervention services no longer need special education by the time they enter kindergarten​.

 

What is RACSB's early intervention program?

We provide early intervention services through our Parent Education-Infant Development program (often called PEID). This program serves children birth to 3 who live in the City of Fredericksburg or the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford. 

Where does early intervention take place?

We meet you where you are. Literally. We provide assessments and services in your home. We also go to daycare centers, relatives’ homes, or wherever your child spends their day. 

How does it work?

Our services start with a free visit from a support coordinator to get a detailed account of your concerns. The support coordinator will then schedule a free developmental assessment, where the infant or toddler is assessed by our staff members from various fields, including early childhood special education, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, and physical therapy. 

If a child is found eligible for early intervention services, the parents and PEID staff work together to create a plan, combining your priorities with our expertise and experience. These parent-led plans start with a simple question: What’s important to you?

How much do services cost?

The intake, initial assessment, and plan are provided at no cost to families. We offer sliding-scale fees for services, and no one is denied services because of an inability to pay. 

How do I find out if my child is eligible for services?

Give us a call for a free assessment of your child’s developmental skills. 540-372-3561. Eligibility will be determined based on an assessment of your child’s development. 

What is the earliest age for early intervention?

These services can begin immediately after birth. It is beneficial for babies to get intervention as early as possible. 

Do I need a referral from a healthcare provider?

Not at all. While we do get referrals from local pediatricians, any parent or guardian can call us directly to ask about assessments. 

Quick Tips for Helping Your Child at Home

Reading Books

helps babies and toddlers develop language skills and provides life-long benefits.
Snuggle with your child as you read. Limit distractions by turning off televisions and phones. Vary your tone of voice and expressions. Choose short books with bright, bold colors and simple images. Point to pictures and say the names of what you see. Ask questions and pause for answers, even if the only reply you hear is a soft coo.

Playing Together

helps little ones learn about their world and discover new skills.
You don't need fancy toys. In fact, sometimes the bells and whistles get in the way of boosting development. Simple building blocks help with fine and gross motor skills. A large, empty box is often the best toy of all. For infants, tummy time is important. Also, offer play with objects of various textures to encourage sensory exploration.

Talking

has a powerful impact on your child's development.
Narrate your day. Vary your tone and inflection. Use short words and sentences. Repetition is key. Say your baby's name A LOT. Name the things, animals, and people you encounter throughout your day. Respond to them, whether they're making babbling sounds, facial expressions, or gestures.

All babies develop at their own pace, making it hard to know when to seek help. If your infant or toddler isn’t meeting milestones give us a call. Some basic milestones include:

0-3 months

Coos and smiles

Visually follows an object

Can hold head erect

3-6 months

Responds to own name

Strings vowels together when babbling

Rolls over in both directions

6-12 months

Begins to speak first words

Sits unsupported

Looks to named objects

12-18 months

Follows simple commands

Drinks from a cup

Walks alone

 

18-24 months

Says sentences with 2-4 words

Points to pictures in a book

Kicks a ball

 

2-3 years

Follows instructions with 2-3 steps

Uses pretend play

Walks up and down stairs

 

Additional Resources