Vermont Early Intervention Services for Infants and Toddlers – IDEA Part C

Address: 103 S Main Street,, 2 & 3 North
Waterbury, VT 05671-5500 Phone: (802) 241-3110 Fax: (802) 8383140 Website: http://dcf.vermont.gov/resources/early-childhood

Vermont Agency of Human Services

Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA): Part C – Early Intervention program for infants and toddlers provides a broad array of services to children with special needs, birth through three years of age, and their families. Children grow and develop differently and at their own pace. The period from birth to age three is a critical time in a child's development and an important time for parents to have accurate information and consistent support close at hand. Acknowledging that families are central to the lives of children and that parents know best what they want for themselves and their children, Vermont is committed to providing early intervention services and supports in a way that recognizes the expertise and experience of families and promotes collaboration between families and service providers. Families who are eligible for services through the IDEA – Part C early intervention services include children ages birth to three years old who are experiencing developmental delays or who have a diagnosed condition that has a high probability of resulting in a developmental delay. There are approximately 20,000 children ages birth to three in Vermont. Based on estimated prevalence, approximately 3% (or 600 children) might be eligible for early intervention services. Currently, Approximately 400 infants and toddlers are receiving early intervention services statewide (2% of the birth to three population). IDEA – Part C early intervention services brings together families and service providers from many aspects of the community, including public and private agencies, parent child centers, local school districts, and private providers. Supports and services come together to meet each child's unique needs and the needs of their family in their home and community. Payment for services comes from a variety of sources, including insurance, Medicaid, participating agencies, local schools, family cost share, etc. By assisting in the coordination of locally available services, Children’s Integrated Services is working to ensure that Vermont's young children and their families have access to the widest possible array of early intervention services. Early intervention services may include the following: audiology, assistive Technology, counseling/Psychological, family training, counseling and home visits, medical Evaluation (for diagnostic purposes only), nursing, nutrition, occupational Therapy, physical Therapy, service Coordination, social Work, special Instruction, speech/Language, transportation, vision.