The first three years of life are a significant period of growth for all children. Children develop at different rates and in different ways.  Differences in development may be related to personality, temperament and/or experiences.  Some children may also have health needs that affect their development.  While all children grow and develop at their own rate, some infants and toddlers experience delays in their development.  This can be a cause for concern. 

What is Early Intervention?

Early intervention services are intended to enhance the growth and development of a child and are planned and delivered through a partnership between families and professionals.

California’s early intervention program is called California Early Start. The program, Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal grant program that assists states in operating a comprehensive statewide program of early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities, ages birth through age 2 years, and their families.

Child Find

Child Find is intended to locate and identify children who are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing developmental delays of 25% or more, are considered at risk or have an established risk condition as defined in the California Early Intervention Services Act. Child Find System and Referrals IDEA Part C regulations require that each State must have a statewide comprehensive, coordinated, multidisciplinary interagency system to provide early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. The system should include standards for appropriate identification, timelines, and coordination with primary referral sources, including the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention program.

You can review the Child Find Plan and Early Start Local Performance Materials.