Early Intervention describes the services that support babies and young children (0-8) with developmental delays and disabilities. There is a focus on the child as the center of a community that surrounds them, which includes families, caregivers, teachers, and friends. Various services can be under the umbrella of Early Intervention, including speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy,  behavioral therapy, and other services that focus on the needs of children and families.  Early intervention has a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills, overcome challenges, and often improves academic performance and everyday life. 

 

Who Benefits?

Early intervention can take a variety of forms, from home visits, to clinical therapy, to school-based programs. Many families require more support than is available through the traditional Kita or medical system and early intervention is shown to help when those supports are not enough. Early intervention is important for both children and families who are at-risk, such as low-income households, children in foster care, or migrant families and for those who have a diagnosed need that requires targeted interventions and support. If a child is at-risk for developmental delays or has a medical diagnosis, early intervention ensures they have the best chance at success in life. 

 

What is a Developmental Delay?

A developmental delay is when a child is not reaching the developmental milestones expected for their age and background. A large part of early intervention is to support these children and their families, to help determine the cause of delays, and to recommend whether a formal diagnosis is needed. Often, children who experience a developmental delay early in life are able to make up the difference with early intervention and their delay does not affect them later on in their development. Areas that are affected by developmental delays are:

• Cognitive development (problem solving, early academics, understanding)

• Physical development, including vision and hearing (Gross and fine motor)

• Communication development (speaking and understanding language)

• Social or emotional development (playing with others, self control, managing their emotions)

• Adaptive development (caring for themselves and their things)

 

When is a diagnosis needed?

The cause of some children’s delays are the result of a physical or mental health reason, such as a chromosomal defect, apraxia, autism, or anxiety. An assessment is completed to determine the cause of their delay. When children are not making progress, even with intervention, or displaying characteristics associated with diagnosable needs, it is generally suggested that the children and families go through an assessment. Assessments can be completed formally through the German medical system, or they can be done privately through psychologists. If you feel that your child needs to be evaluated or are unsure if assessment is needed right now, please contact me and I can help you determine the best path for you and your child.