A Cause For Concern As someone who cares about children, you know that no two children are exactly the same--each one is unique.

Most differences are nothing to worry about, but in some children the differences can signal a special need. If you are close to a child, you may be the first person to notice warning signs.

The earlier a delay or disability is identified, the better the chance is that intervention services can help a child reach his or her potential.

Early Intervention Makes Difference Illinois has a statewide, family-centered, service system to find and help children who are eligible for early intervention services as defined in Part C of the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Regional Child and Family Connections agencies arrange for evaluations and assessments for children under three. Evaluations and assessments are provided at no cost to families.

Families with eligible children receive an Individualized Family Service Plan, which lists the services and supports that must be made available to the family.

Eligible children experience delay in at least one of these areas:
•Cognitive Development
•Physical Developement(hearing, vision, language and speech)
•Psychosocial Development

Children diagnosed with a physical or mental condition with a high probability of resulting in developmental delays or with certain family circumstances which put them at risk of substantial delays are also eligible.

Your Role in Early Intervention
When you introduce parents to the family-centered Early Intervention Services System, they join a community of support--from parents already in the system to the service providers who work with the family to meet the child's needs.

The Early Intervention law was passed to assure that eligible children get the earliest possible start on overcoming developmental problems. Health care providers, child care providers, and other professionals who identify a child with a disability or possible developmental delay are to refer that child for services right away. The law in Illinois says referrals must be made within two working days.

For the name of the Child and Family Connection agency nearest you, call 1/800/323-4769.

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