In Pennsylvania, Early Intervention programs consist of services and supports designed to help families with children who have developmental delays or disabilities, starting at age three until entry into kindergarten. Early Intervention special education and related services are provided at no cost to families when a child meets the eligibility requirements. Early Intervention is individualized to enhance the child’s learning and growth in the setting where they would be if they did not have a disability.
If a child's screening and/or evaluation has determined the child to be eligible for special education services, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is developed. Parents and professionals from the Early Intervention Program participate in the process.
You and your child’s IEP Team will plan for needed services. Examples of these services are inclusion support in community preschool or daycare settings, early childhood special education classes, speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, deaf and hard of hearing support, and blind and visually impaired support.
How to Refer A Child
If your child or a child under your care is having difficulty talking, walking, moving, hearing, seeing, or learning, you may refer that child for a developmental screening or evaluation to determine if preschool early intervention services are needed. Complete the Capital Area Intermediate Unit (CAIU) Early Intervention Referral Form below.
EI Handbook
EI Calendars
Early Intervention Services
- Early Childhood Special Education Classes
- Speech/Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy
- Support in Early Childhood Daycares and Environments
- Transition to School-Age Programming
Early Childhood Special Education Classes
Speech/Language Therapy
Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy
Support in Early Childhood Daycares and Environments
Transition to School-Age Programming
Procedural Safeguards
This video provides a summary of the rights of parents when a child receives, or may be eligible to receive, special education services.
Contact
Terry Telep, Supervisor
Early Intervention
717.732.8400, Ext. 8539
Jessica White, Supervisor
Early Intervention
717.732.8400, Ext. 8781
Irene Reedy, Ed.D., Supervisor
Occupational & Physical Therapy, Behavior Supports, Transition
717.732.8400, Ext. 8543
Jennifer Lyden
Speech/Language Supervisor
Early Intervention, School Age
717.732.8400, Ext. 8254
Meghan Harvey
Speech/Language Supervisor
Early Intervention, School Age
717.732.8400, Ext. 8102