Early Intervention (0-3)
Free developmental services for infants and toddlers who have delays or disabilities. Services are provided in your home or community settings.
Early Intervention services help babies and toddlers (birth to age 3) who are not meeting developmental milestones or who have been diagnosed with a condition that may affect their development. In California, these services are coordinated through the Regional Center system under the Early Start program.
Services can include speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, special instruction, and family training. A service coordinator will work with your family to create an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that outlines the specific supports your child needs. All core services are provided at no cost to families regardless of income.
The earlier your child begins receiving support, the better their long-term outcomes tend to be. You do not need a formal diagnosis to request an evaluation. If you have concerns about your child's development, you can refer yourself directly to your local Regional Center.
Eligibility
Children from birth to 36 months who have a developmental delay of 33% or more in one or more areas, have an established risk condition, or are at high risk for developmental disability.
Typical Timeline
Initial evaluation typically completed within 45 days of referral. IFSP developed within 45 days of evaluation. Services begin as soon as possible after the IFSP is finalized.
Documents You May Need
- Child's birth certificate or proof of age
- Health insurance information (Medi-Cal or private)
- Any existing medical or developmental evaluations
- Immunization records
What to Ask For
- How long is the current wait for an initial evaluation?
- What does the evaluation process involve and how long does it take?
- Can services be provided in our home or at daycare?
- What happens when my child turns 3 and ages out of Early Start?
- Are there parent support groups available through the program?
Age Groups
Providers Offering This Service
Golden Gate Regional Center
Coordinates services for people with developmental disabilities in San Francisco, Marin, and San Mateo counties.
Regional Center of the East Bay
Provides services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
San Andreas Regional Center
Serves individuals with developmental disabilities in Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties.
Bay Area Autism Services
Nonprofit providing ABA therapy, social skills groups, parent training, and diagnostic evaluations in the East Bay.
Stanford Children's Health - Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics
Multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations and treatment for developmental delays, autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
Community Gatepath
Lifespan services including pediatric therapies, early intervention, adult employment, and family support on the Peninsula.