When Should a Parent Consider Early Intervention for Their Child?

Considering Early Intervention

Parents may wish to know whether seeking early intervention services for their child is the right thing to do. According to Child Mind Institute, “Some disorders are so serious—and responsive to early and immediate intervention—that consulting a mental health professional is imperative. When the communication deficits and social problems associated with autism are caught early, children have a better chance of improving and enjoying less restricted lives.”  Intervention is likely to be more effective when it is provided earlier in life rather than later (CDC).

However, developmental milestones can have a lot of variance. While every child is an individual and develops at their own pace, there are known periods or “windows” during which most children achieve certain milestones (TEIS). Seeking out a pediatrician or specialist can provide the parent or caregiver with more information on the child’s development.

The CDC provides a guide on what to say for parents or caregivers who may be unsure about how to approach a professional regarding early intervention. The CDC also provides a checklist for what to do before, during, and after meeting with your child’s pediatrician (available in both English and Spanish).

Local Resources for Early Intervention

• Allegheny Intermediate Unit
  • www.aiu3.net
  • 412.394.5700
• The Alliance for Infants and Toddlers
  • www.afit.org
  • 412.885.6000
• Early Intervention Technical Assistance Online Learning Portal for Families
  • www.eita-pa.org/families
• Pittsburgh Public Schools Early Intervention Program
  • www.pghschools.org
  • 412.529.4000
• The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh
  • www.amazingkids.org
  • 412.420.2400