Early Intervention

What is early intervention?

Early intervention can help you and your family support and promote your child’s development, within your family activities and community life. Vermont’s Early Intervention system supports children birth through three years of age who have special developmental needs. The Vermont Family Network Children’s Integrated Services – Early Intervention Program “connects” families with services, such as occupational, speech or physical therapy, to help infants and toddlers grow and develop and help their families in this process. It is a voluntary program and does not discriminate based on race, culture, religion, income level, or disability.

The term “early” intervention is important because research shows that the first three years are the most important time for learning in a child’s life. Providing developmental supports and services early improves a child’s ability to develop and learn. Also, it may prevent or decrease the need for special help later.