At a Glance & Program Features
Every child grows and develops at their own pace, but research shows that a child’s first three years are the most important time for learning. Florida’s Early Steps Program provides early intervention services to eligible infants and toddlers, from birth to 36 months, with developmental delays, disabilities, and at-risk conditions.
Getting help early puts your child on the right path to learn and develop to their full potential
Early Steps Services
Early Steps’ intervention services are designed to support young children in their development, as well as the families who love them.
Services are based on a child’s strengths and needs and may include:
- Developmental evaluation
- Service coordination
- Developmental Monitoring
- Occupational, Physical & Speech Therapy
- Assistive Technology Devices
- Other Individualized Services
While outcomes vary in Early Steps and are based on a child’s challenges, needs or disabilities, children in the program are better able to apply the skills they learn in a variety of ways, and are much more likely to start school in regular education settings. There is no income requirement to qualify for the program. Early Steps pays for services not covered by Public or Private insurance
The parents’ role in early intervention
Families know their child best and are valued members in decision-making about their child’s needs.
Early Steps recognizes how essential the parent role is in a child’s life. For this reason, Early Steps works to partner with families. We believe that an active and engaged partnership supports families in addressing each child’s unique needs.
For prospective families
Parents with children ages birth to 36 months with concerns about their child’s development are invited to contact our local Early Steps office for more information or to make a referral at 386-873-0365.
After Early Steps
Children by age 3 leave the Early Steps program once they have met their developmental goals and no longer require Early Steps’ early intervention services.
Children who continue to need developmental services after their third birthday may transition to services provided through the school district or other community organizations.
Staff and Locations
The Early Steps program is professionally managed by a program manager, assistant manager, and multiple family service coordinators and family resource specialists.
Early Steps covers Volusia, Flagler, Lake, Sumter, and Putnam Counties.
Additional Information
If you are an NBES provider, visit Provider Information and Resources
