What is Early Intervention?

What is Early Intervention?

Early Intervention or “EI” is a supportive program designed for babies and toddlers—from birth to age three—who may be experiencing or are at risk for developmental delays.

Because every child is unique, EI is never one-size-fits-all. Depending on your family’s needs, services may include:

  • Therapeutic Support: Speech, feeding, physical, or occupational therapy.
  • Specialized Tools: Access to adaptive equipment.
  • Family Guidance: Direct support and resources for parents and caregivers.

This list is not expansive, EI looks different for every child!

The best part? It’s a right, not a privilege. Under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), states are federally mandated to provide these services at no cost to families.

While most states do have similar criteria for services, they do vary. This website hopes to make the process of accessing EI easier. You can find your state’s information by visiting the EI by State page. See the glossary to find definitions of key terms related to early intervention.

Your Rights as a Parent

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), you are a vital member of your child’s team. Federal law guarantees you the following protections:

1. The Right to “Prior Written Notice”

You must be notified in writing before the EI program makes any changes. This includes:

  • When they want to start, change, or stop an evaluation.
  • When they propose a change to your child’s services or placement.
  • If they refuse a service or evaluation you have requested.

You should always know what is happening and why before it happens.

2. The Right to Parental Consent

Early Intervention is a voluntary program. Nothing happens without your written “OK.”

  • You must give written consent before any screening, evaluation, or service begins.
  • You have the right to accept some services and decline others.
  • You can revoke (withdraw) your consent at any time.

3. The Right to Confidentiality & Privacy

Your family’s information is protected by federal privacy laws (IDEA and FERPA).

  • Your child’s records cannot be shared with outside agencies (like a school or a doctor) without your written permission.
  • You have the right to inspect and review your child’s records at any time.
  • You can request to amend (change) any information in the record that you believe is inaccurate or misleading.

4. The Right to Understandable Language

All information—both written and spoken—must be provided in your native language or preferred mode of communication (such as Sign Language or Braille), unless it is clearly not possible to do so.

5. The Right to Dispute Resolution

If you and the EI program disagree, you have a legal path to resolve the conflict:

  • Administrative Complaint: You can file a written complaint with the state lead agency if you believe the program has violated the law.
  • Mediation: A neutral third party helps you and the state reach an agreement (at no cost to you).
  • Due Process Hearing: A formal legal proceeding where an impartial officer makes a decision.