Early Intervention (Birth-3)

Early Intervention (EI) is a statewide system that provides services to families of children birth to three with developmental delays or disabilities. Early Intervention is built upon the principle that infants and toddlers learn best through every day experiences and interactions with familiar people.

Watch this video to learn more.

Anyone can make a referral for a child! Referrals for children birth through 3 years old can be made by parents, friends, relatives, teachers, medical professionals, community programs, or anyone who believes that a child residing in Ashtabula County may benefit from and qualify for Early Intervention services.

"Early Intervention helped improve Dawson's skills and taught me different ways to teach him new skills too."

-Laura Brown, mother of Dawson

Is there a cost for services?

Ashtabula County Early Intervention services are offered to families at no cost to them. Services are funded through a combination of local and state funds. Local funds are generated from Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities levies.

How will I know if my child is eligible?

Eligibility is based on a diagnosis or through a process which includes an evaluation tool, information gathered from you, observation, and review of your child’s medical records.

Who is on the Early Intervention team?

Once your child is found eligible for EI services, you will be a part of a team consisting of your family, an EI Service Coordinator, and service providers. These team members will work with you to develop goals for your child and create strategies that can be used in your home, or other familiar settings.

The members of the team may include:

Developmental Specialists
Speech Therapists
Physical Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Vision Specialist
Audiologist
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
PLAY Project Consultant

Depending on your concerns as well as information gathered during the intake process, one of these team members will be assigned as the Primary Service Provider (PSP) for your family.

What is the PLAY Project?

The PLAY Project is an evidenced-based Autism intervention offered to families receiving Early Intervention services through the Ashtabula County Board of DD. A PLAY Project consultant teaches you strategies to grow positive relationships between your child and your family through play. You will also learn to build your child’s skills in language, behavior, and socialization. Our goal is to help you connect with your child through playful interaction so they can reach their fullest potential!

How can I get help for my child?