Early Intervention
Early Intervention
While all children grow and develop in unique ways, some children experience delays in development. Children, birth to five with developmental delays, are eligible to receive support and services through the Pennsylvania Early Intervention Program.
Early intervention provides training and skill development to parents to enable them to facilitate and enhance their child’s growth. Occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, social service coordinators and teachers work with families to address the child’s developmental needs and improve strengths.
Wyoming Valley Children’s Association is a contracted local provider for the Early Intervention Program providing home-based services for children birth through 2 years. Children 3 to 5 years are eligible to attend an inclusive preschool for half or full day sessions at WVCA’s Center in Forty Fort.
Download our Early Intervention Brochure
What Children are Eligible?
Children from birth to kindergarten age who have special needs due to developmental delays or disabilities and meet the eligibility criteria of a 25% delay in one or more of the developmental areas of: physical, cognitive, sensory, communication, social-personal and adaptive development.
What Services are Provided?
The services provided to children and their families differ based upon the individual needs and strengths of each child and the child’s family. WVCA provides the following available services:
- Early Childhood Education
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Service Coordination
Where do Children Receive Services?
Early Intervention provides supports and services in a variety of settings. The services occur in the least restrictive environment and embedded in typical routines and activities, within the family, community and/or education settings. Services may be provided in the child’s home, child care center, nursery school, play group, early childhood special education classroom or settings familiar to the family.
What is the Cost for Services?
Early Intervention services are provided at no cost to the family. There are no income guidelines or insurance necessary.
How to Receive Services
Parents or guardians who have questions about their child’s development may contact:
Children Birth through 2 Years
Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health Mental Retardation Early Intervention Program
570-826-3030 or 1-800-732-6330
Children 3 to Kindergarten Age
Hazleton Area School District Early Intervention Program
570-826-0850 or 570-454-1870
www.hasd.k12.pa.us/schools/special/earlyinter3.htm
Related Services
Early Identification Medical Clinic & Service Coordination
Wyoming Valley Children’s Association offers families various supportive services including an Early Identification Clinic (a speciality medical clinic which diagnoses children with developmental delays) and Service Coordination. For more information on these services, visit the links below.
Copyright © 2009 Wyoming Valley Children's Association.