THE NEXT STEP...EARLY INTERVENTION

Early Intervention is given to very young children with special needs, generally from birth until three years. Services include: speech therapy, occupational therapy & physical therapy & are provided either in an office or in the child's home. Our meetings & therapy sessions take place at home. The therapy is very family focused. We are familiar with Early Intervention because our son Aidan received Speech, Occupational Therapy & Special Education services from 15 months-3years.

The hope is that these services, provided early, will address any delays in development so that the child will not need services later on. At age 3, if a child still needs help, he or she might be referred to the school district for special-education preschool.

Today we met with Emily's Early Intervention team to discuss what services she will receive. She automatically qualifies because of her diagnosis. We are very fortunate to have the same case worker that we had with Aidan. It definitely helps that she is familiar with our family already.

Emily will receive the following services:
Speech: (Aidan's Speech Therapist) Therapy will focus on her feedings at this point. When she eats, Emily sometimes chokes & has trouble coordinating sucking, swallowing & breathing. We will meet with the therapist a few times a month.

Physical Therapy: We will work with a consultant a few times a month. She will check Emily's progress & provide services as needed.

Social Work: This is for Mom & Dad. At times, it is difficult to cope with Emily's diagnosis. At times it is easier than others. The social worker will provide counseling as needed.

Since Emily is only 2 months old, she is age appropriate. As she begins to develop, she may need more services, depending on her delays. Emily will also be seeing a Developmental Pediatrician as well as her regular pediatrician.

So, the journey continues with paperwork & appointments galore!! I can't live without my planner! I am so grateful that these services are available to Emily & our family. We want to give her everything we can to help her succeed & we believe the best time to start is now.