Early Intervention: Does My Baby Need It?

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Parents get concerned when their child’s development is delayed. Some do not realize the delay until the pediatrician mentions it. Others know something is not quite right. For example, they may think, “this child isn’t doing what my other child did at the same age” or “my baby isn’t doing what other kids his age are doing.”

While some doctors prefer to “wait and see” if the baby catches up, others refer the child for an early intervention evaluation and services if needed. If your baby is behind, you may ask, “What is early intervention for babies, and does my baby need it?”

What Is Early Intervention for Babies?

Early intervention is a system of coordinated services that promotes the child’s age-appropriate growth and development. It supports families during the critical early years. In the United States, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires early intervention services for eligible children and families.

In other words, if a child younger than 6 is deemed eligible for early intervention services, a coordinated team of professionals — early intervention educators, service coordinators, physical, occupational, and speech therapists — teaches the family techniques designed to help the child catch up with his peers. Thus, the child will be ready to enter school.

Why Early Intervention Services Matter

The logic behind early intervention is that a child’s brain is most flexible and can learn faster during the early years. Research shows that 85% of a child’s brain develops before age 3. So, finding and minimizing delays can prevent them from becoming more severe later in life. For example, suppose a 2-year-old has a limited vocabulary, which persists until he begins kindergarten. In that case, he will be significantly delayed compared to his classmates. Addressing that delay later may frustrate the child and interfere with his ability to make friends and feel confident in his ability to learn. Loving parents do not want their children to struggle academically or socially.

Does My Child Need an Early Intervention Evaluation?

Most pediatricians, health departments, and other caregivers for infants and toddlers check a child’s development through parent interviews, physical examinations, and questionnaires. During these assessments, parents should be truthful when stating their baby’s abilities and struggles. While no parent wants to admit a delay, accessing available services to help the child succeed can only happen when medical professionals get accurate information.

If your baby shows delays or has a diagnosis that increases the risk for delays, the doctor may prescribe an early intervention evaluation by a team of child development experts. When a delay meets eligibility standards, the team develops a remediation plan to help your baby catch up.

Overcoming Your Fears So You Can Help Your Child

My son needed speech therapy services, but those did not begin until he was 4 years old. His pediatrician knew of his struggles but recommended a wait-and-see approach, which I agreed to. So, I know how it feels to fear something is wrong and worry about whether to wait or take action.

While my son eventually graduated from therapy, I still wish we had gotten services earlier. There were many times when I doubted the decision to wait a while. I also feared my son would be harmed by not beginning services earlier.

If that’s you, here is one of my favorite verses that strengthens me when doubts and fears creep in:

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10 ESV

Another one that always comforts me is:

“He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler..” — Psalm 91:4 ESV

Take comfort in knowing that nothing about your child’s life is unknown to God. He is aware, and He cares. He chose you as this baby’s parent and, as a result, will always protect, guide, and love you every moment. Seek His counsel on all of your decisions.

If your child struggles to meet developmental milestones, ask God to show you the way forward and comfort you through the process. He has always been there for me, and I trust He’ll faithfully be there for you.

As an early intervention evaluator, I discovered that many children were developing well, just more slowly than usual. But it never hurts to get an evaluation and educate yourself on what early intervention for babies can provide if services are needed. Most parents want answers, and knowing there is help out there always brings comfort.

How to Find Early Intervention Services

You can contact your state’s early intervention office here. Typically, parents can schedule an evaluation without a doctor’s referral or insurance.