EARLY ON® FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS EARLY ON®?
Early On® is a family-centered system, with emphasis on family strengths and abilities, which requires the development of an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) specific to each child and family. The IFSP is based on the priorities of the family and the results of the family interview and multidisciplinary evaluation. To the maximum extent appropriate, early intervention will occur in natural environments, including the home and community settings. 

HOW DOES EARLY ON® WORK?
Once we receive an Early On® referral, an Early On® Service Coordinator will obtain the appropriate information and set up an in-home evaluation.  The evaluation is not a test.  A child cannot pass or fail.  During the evaluation, the coordinator will talk with the parents or guardian about the child’s development, and assess specific areas of concern, including:

  • What the family’s priorities and needs are for their child
  • The way the child moves, sees, or hears (physical development)
  • The way the child learns to think (cognitive development)
  • The way the child lets you know what he/she needs or feels (communication development)
  • The way a child relates to others and shows emotion (social or emotional development)
  • The way a child helps himself/herself (adaptive development)

WHAT ARE EXAMPLES OF SERVICES EARLY ON® COORDINATES OR PROVIDES?

  • In-home evaluations and assessments
  • Early identification and intervention
  • Home visits
  • Special instruction (teaching)
  • Linking parents with other parents who have been through a similar experience
  • Assistance with locating playgroups and other resources
  • Referrals to community agencies Family training

HOW MUCH DOES EARLY ON® COST?
There is no charge to families for the in-home evaluation, Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) development, or service coordination.  If there are costs for services, the Early On® Service coordinator assists families in locating financial resources, if necessary.  

Click here for the American Academy of Pediatric developmental milestones.