Early intervention is crucial to a child’s development and can set them up for success later in life. West Virginia has an early intervention program called WV Birth to Three that provides services to children from birth to 35 months old.
This article will give you an overview of WV Birth to Three, including who’s eligible and how to get started.
What is WV Birth to Three?
WV Birth to Three is an early intervention program for West Virginia children between birth and 35 months who have developmental delays or are at risk of having them. WV Birth to Three provides services at no cost to families, usually in the child’s natural environment, like their home or daycare.
The program aims to help children develop and to support their families as they learn to manage any challenges.
Who is eligible for WV Birth to Three?
To qualify for WV Birth to Three, children must have a diagnosed condition that typically causes delays, a developmental delay, or be at risk of a developmental delay.
Developmental delays include things like speech delays or motor skill delays. Babies who are born premature or who have genetic conditions may be at risk for developmental delays.
How to Access WV Birth to Three Services
If you believe your child may benefit from WV Birth to Three services, here’s how to get started.
Referral Process
Referrals to the program can be made by anyone who has contact with the child: parents, doctors, caregivers, teachers, or even friends. The earlier a child is referred, the better the chance of a positive outcome.
Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
Within 45 days of referral, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed by a team of qualified professionals and the child’s family. The IFSP outlines the child’s specific needs, sets goals for their development, and details the services that will be provided to help them reach those goals.
Additional resources and support
West Virginia Birth to Three has many programs and services to help your child and family thrive.
Transition planning
As your child nears the age of three, WV Birth to Three offers transition planning services to help your child move smoothly into preschool or other services.
Tracking child development
WV Birth to Three encourages families to keep track of their child’s development using developmental milestones. The CDC offers updated checklists for children ages 15 to 30 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Birth to Three in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, children from birth to age three are eligible for Birth to Three services if they have a developmental delay of at least 25% in one or more areas of development (cognitive, physical, communication, social-emotional, or adaptive) or have a diagnosed condition with a high probability of developmental delay.
Why is birth to age 3 so important?
The period from birth to age three is a time of incredible brain development. Early intervention during these years can have a significant positive impact on a child’s future learning, development, and overall well-being. It’s when children learn the most basic skills and establish the foundation for future growth.
What is the meaning of Birth to Three?
Birth to Three refers to early intervention services provided to infants and toddlers (from birth to their third birthday) who have developmental delays or disabilities. It’s a system of support designed to help these children reach their full potential and to assist their families in supporting their development.
How much does a Birth to Three service coordinator make in WV?
The salary for a Birth to Three service coordinator in West Virginia can vary depending on experience, education, and the specific agency. However, you can typically expect the median salary to be around $45,000 per year. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and actual salaries may differ.
Final Thoughts
WV Birth to Three offers a range of services to support young children and their families. Early intervention can make a huge difference in a child’s development, so it’s important to identify and address any concerns as soon as possible.
If you think your child might benefit from WV Birth to Three, don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.