For infants and toddlers facing developmental delays, early intervention is key. These services can have a huge impact on a child’s development and future. Louisiana offers its own program to help: EarlySteps.
EarlySteps provides support and services to Louisiana children from birth to 36 months who have developmental delays or medical conditions that are likely to cause them.
Here’s an overview of Louisiana’s EarlySteps program, including who’s eligible, what services are offered, and how to access this vital support.
Who is eligible for EarlySteps?
EarlySteps is designed to help infants and toddlers who need a little extra support to reach their full potential. Here’s a quick look at the eligibility requirements:
Age Requirements
The program serves infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months. This is a crucial time for early brain development, so early intervention can make a big difference.
Developmental Delay Criteria
Children are eligible if they’re showing signs of developmental delays in one or more of these key areas:
- Physical development
- Cognitive development
- Communication development
- Social-emotional development
- Adaptive development
Medical Condition Criteria
Kids with a diagnosed medical condition that’s likely to cause a developmental delay are also eligible for EarlySteps. Some examples of these conditions include genetic disorders, prematurity, and neurological conditions.
What services does EarlySteps provide?
EarlySteps provides a wide variety of services tailored to each child and family’s individual needs. These services are designed to support the child’s development and help families support their children.
Here are some examples of available services:
- Assistive technology
- Audiology
- Healthcare services
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
Whenever possible, EarlySteps services are provided in “natural environments” that are familiar to the child, such as their home or daycare. This is intended to promote learning and development in a comfortable and supportive setting.
Accessing EarlySteps: The System Point of Entry (SPOE)
If you think your child may benefit from EarlySteps services, the first step is to contact the System Point of Entry, or SPOE.
What is the SPOE?
The SPOE is the place families turn to when they’re first seeking EarlySteps services. The people at the SPOE handle the initial intake and get you started in the right direction.
Easterseals Louisiana as SPOE
Easterseals Louisiana is one of the designated SPOEs for EarlySteps in Louisiana.
Contacting the SPOE
Anyone can make a referral to EarlySteps, whether it’s you as a parent or another family member, your child’s doctor, or some other professional who works with your child.
To get started, just contact the SPOE office nearest you. The Early Steps website has a list of offices in New Orleans, Monroe, and other locations around the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps in the Early Steps process?
The Early Steps process begins with a referral, often from a doctor, parent, or caregiver. Next, there’s an evaluation to determine eligibility, focusing on developmental delays. If eligible, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed, outlining specific goals and services tailored to the child’s and family’s needs. Services are then provided, which can include therapy, home visits, and other supports. The IFSP is reviewed regularly, and the child transitions out of Early Steps at age three.
Does Medicaid cover Early Steps?
Yes, Medicaid generally covers Early Steps services in Louisiana for eligible children. Early Steps is a statewide early intervention system for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families, and it’s designed to be accessible regardless of a family’s ability to pay. While Medicaid is a primary funding source, Early Steps also utilizes other federal and state funds to ensure services are available to all eligible children, even those without Medicaid coverage.
In Closing
EarlySteps provides vital early intervention services to Louisiana children who experience developmental delays. These services can make a huge difference in the life of a child and their family.
If you live in Louisiana and have any concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to contact EarlySteps. Early intervention works best when it starts early.
To learn more about your child’s development, consider using the free, online screening tool available at Easterseals.com/MTFFC.