Early intervention is the term used to describe services and support that help babies and toddlers (from birth to 3 years of age in most states/territories) with developmental delays or disabilities and their families. Services may include speech therapy, physical therapy, and other types of services based on the needs of the child and family (CDC, December 24, 2024).

Early intervention can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills and increase their success in school and life. Programs are available in every state and territory. These services are provided for free or at a reduced cost for any child who meets the state’s criteria for developmental delay (CDC, December 24, 2024).

The New York State Early Intervention Program (EIP) is part of the national Early Intervention Program for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Created in 1986 under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the EIP is administered by the New York State Department of Health through the Bureau of Early Intervention.

To be eligible for services, children must be under 3 years of age and have a confirmed disability or established developmental delay, as defined by the State, in one or more of the following areas of development: physical, cognitive, communication, social-emotional, and/or adaptive (NYSDOH, 2025).

Early intervention treatments include:

• Speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
• Special education through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in the school system.
• Behavioral interventions: to address challenging behaviors that often stem from difficulty communicating or controlling impulses.
• Family support: parent training, counseling, and connection to community resources.