Early Start 0-3 Services
At Families United, we understand how critical the first three years of life are in a child’s development. Our Early Start 0-3 Services are designed to provide families with the support and resources they need during this crucial period. We focus on helping families of infants and toddlers who may have developmental delays or disabilities, ensuring they get the right interventions early to promote healthy development.
What is Early Start?
Early Start is California’s program for infants and toddlers (ages 0-3) who have developmental delays or are at risk of developmental disabilities. The program provides early intervention services to help children achieve developmental milestones in areas such as movement, communication, cognitive skills, social-emotional development, and self-help skills.
At Families United, we partner with families to guide them through the Early Start process, from developmental screenings and assessments to accessing services, all while providing culturally competent and responsive care and advocacy.
Our Early Start 0-3 Services
We offer a wide range of services tailored to the unique needs of children and families, including:
- Developmental Screenings: We provide thorough developmental assessments to identify any delays in communication, physical abilities, social-emotional skills, and cognitive development.
- Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP): Our team works with families to create an IFSP that outlines the specific goals and services that will support the child’s development. This personalized plan is reviewed regularly and adjusted as the child’s needs evolve.
- Early Intervention Services: We help connect families with early intervention services such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and specialized instruction to address developmental challenges.
- Parent Training and Support: We offer workshops, training and one-on-one coaching/advocacy for parents and caregivers, helping them learn techniques and strategies to support their child’s development at home.
- Resource and Referral Service: Navigating the world of early intervention can be overwhelming. Our team provides referrals to local resources, specialists, and community services to ensure that families are connected to everything they need.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Research has shown that the first three (3) years of a child’s life are critical for brain development. For children with developmental delays, early intervention can significantly improve their ability to learn new skills, improve their communication and behavior, and increase their chances of success in school and life.
By getting involved early, families can help their children by building a strong foundation for future growth and learning. Early Intervention not only benefits the child but also provides families the knowledge and tools to advocate for their child’s needs.
How Families United Supports Early Start
Our dedicated Family Navigators work closely with families to ensure they understand their rights, access the appropriate services, and feel supported throughout the process. We advocate for families at every stage, ensuring that their voice is heard in creating a plan that truly meets their child’s needs.
Get Started with Early Start Services
If you are concerned about your child’s development or have questions about Early Start, reach out to Families United. We are here to provide support, guidance, and resources for families in need. Whether its developmental screenings, advocacy, or connecting you with intervention services, we’re with you every step of the way.
TOGETHER WE CAN create a pathway for success and ensure that every child gets the best possible start in life. Let’s begin this journey together!