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UF Health University of Florida
North Central Early Steps Department of Pediatrics in the College of Medicine
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Families Overview

Families

Early Intervention Can Help!

Do You Have Questions About Your Child’s Development?

No two children are the same – each one is unique. Most differences are nothing to worry about, but in some children, the differences signal a need for early intervention.

For Families

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Early Steps and Early Intervention?

Early Steps is the agency responsible to provide early intervention services, IDEA Part C, in the state of Florida.

What is early intervention?

Early Intervention is a system of support that builds the capacity and confidence of the families and caregivers to support their children’s development through activities that are part of their everyday routine.

Why is Early Intervention Important?

Positive early experiences are essential prerequisites for later success in school, the workplace, and the community. Building the capacity and confidence of families to support their infant or toddler who is at risk for developmental delays has been shown to positively impact outcomes across developmental domains, including health, language and communication, and cognitive and social/emotional development.

Families benefit from early intervention by being able to meet their child’s needs from an early age and throughout their lives.

Is This Typical Development?

Every child is unique and develops at a unique pace. Parents know their children best. If you are worried about your child’s development, do not wait! The years from birth to age three are so important. Talk with your child’s pediatrician about your concerns. You can also contact us to refer your child to us.

Follow this link to learn more about developmental milestones

How Do I Refer My Child?

Anyone, including parents, may refer a child to UF North Central Early Steps as soon as there is a concern for a developmental delay. Our Intake Service Coordinators are here to assist you in learning about our program. Learn how to submit a referral online.

Who do I contact if my child is older than 36 months old?

If your child is 3 years old or older, contact Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System DLRS (FDLRS). They assist families by identifying children who are potentially eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and linking them with the school.

What is Transition?

Early Steps provides early intervention supports for children from birth to three years of age. After the third birthday, your child is no longer eligible for our program and other programs may continue meeting your child’s developmental needs. Through the transition process, we can assist you to prepare for this important moment. To learn more about transition contact your Service Coordinator and join our monthly Transition Parent Group.

Are telehealth appointments available?

Ask your Early Steps provider about telehealth visits today. All our Early Steps providers can provide your services through a HIPAA secure video conference directly to your home, using a simple app on your phone or computer.

Family Resource Specialists

The Family Resource Specialist (FRS) is a parent or caregiver of a child who received Early Steps services. The FRS helps families of children in our Early Steps program by providing information and support and by connecting them with other parent organizations and community supports.

Ask your FRS about:

  • Local parent-to-parent support and playgroups
  • Information about community supports and resources such as housing, financial assistance, disaster preparedness, childcare, and health care.
  • Your child’s and family’s rights concerning Early Steps services
  • How the Early Steps system works
  • Obtaining funds to attend a conference Preparing for Transition