Early Intervention
A Simple Guide for Parents (NYC)
If you're concerned about your baby’s or toddler’s development — or think your child may have a disability — you're in the right place. This page will walk you through how early intervention works and how to get support in New York City.
What Is Early Intervention?
Early intervention is a set of services that helps babies & toddlers (0-3) with:● Developmental delays● Diagnosed conditions that could lead to delays
Support In Key Areas
● Physical – crawling, walking, fine motor skills● Cognitive – thinking, learning, problem-solving● Communication – understanding, listening, talking● Social/Emotional – playing, interacting, expressing feelings● Self-Help – eating, dressing, daily routines
Who Can Get Services?
Your child may be eligible for early intervention if they:
● Have a diagnosed condition (e.g., Down syndrome, hearing loss)● Were born very early, with low birth weight, or other complications● Are not meeting typical milestones● Show signs of delayed or different development
To determine eligibility, your child will receive a free evaluation (with your consent).
What Is a Developmental Delay?
This means your child is not reaching expected skills for their age in areas like:● Movement or coordination● Speech and language● Social or emotional skills● Daily routines like eating or dressingNot sure if your child is on track?
What To Do If You're Concerned
If your child seems behind in any area of development:
1
Call our office at (516) -295-2019 or email us at moc.eractuodnats%40ofni.
2
Talk to your pediatrician – share your concerns and observations.
3
Contact NYC Early Intervention directly – you do not need a referral to get started.
The Early Intervention Process (NYC)
Referral
Reach out to our office. Our intake team will listen to your concerns and guide you on the next steps. You can contact the NYC Early Intervention Program yourself.
- 📞 Call 311 (ask for Early Intervention)
- 📧 Email: BEIP@health.nyc.gov
- 🌐 Website: nyc.gov/health/ei-referral
You will be enrolled with an Early Intervention agency and assigned a service coordinator who will guide you through the entire process.
Evaluation & Assessment
With your permission, your child will be evaluated by professionals who look at five areas of development. This is done through observation, play, and interaction and can be done in person or remotely.
If your child has a qualifying diagnosed condition, they will be eligible for services.
Eligibility Decision
Your service coordinator will discuss the results of the evaluations with you. If eligible, an IFSP meeting will be scheduled.
Developing the IFSP
You will be an active participant in the IFSP meeting where you will develop the IFSP. It includes:
- Your child’s development and needs
- Goals for your child and family
- What services your child will receive
- When, where, and how often services will happen
- Who will coordinate everything
- Transition planning for when your child turns 3
👉 You must provide written consent before any services begin.
Ongoing Support
Your service coordinator will periodically check in to see how services are going and discuss the transition plan for when your child turns 3. Your child’s IFSP is reviewed every 6 months and updated at least once a year.
Timelines
From the time of referral, NYC Early Intervention has 45 days to:
Evaluate your child
Determine eligibility
Develop the IFSP
Cost of Services
In New York City, the following are provided at no cost to families:
Evaluations and assessments
Service coordination
IFSP development and reviews
Most early intervention services
(Some services may be billed to your insurance, but you will not be charged).
You're Not Alone
Many parents worry when their child seems “behind.” Every child develops at their own pace — but if something feels off, it’s okay to ask for help.
Early intervention can make a big difference in how your child learns and grows.Let’s work together to give your child the best possible start.
Ready to Get Started?
You can refer your child today:
Email Us
moc.eractuodnats%40ofni
Call Us
+1 (516) -295-2019
Email NYC
vog.cyn.htlaeh%40PIEB
Call 311 (ask for Early Intervention)
311
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