Those who conduct an evaluation of the child are trained in whatever skill the child is lacking. They get a good deal of information from watching the child in their normal environment and also by asking questions of the parents. The team then reports its findings and determines if the child is eligible for assistance.
If so, a representative of EIP will set up a series of visits – in home or at another location such as day care – where your child will receive the needed therapy.
The program provides occupational, physical and speech therapy as well as vision, audiology, nutrition and other services. Family members can receive education and other types of help as well.
Counseling, home visits and parent support groups can be very helpful to those dealing with these issues. Services, which can begin at any time between birth and school age, can be given at home, in a hospital or in a school-like setting. After age three, the services are provided through the local school district.
Rachael began receiving weekly physical occupational therapy sessions at home when she was 1. In addition to the walking delay, Rachael had Sensory Integration Dysfunction and hated loud noises and the feeling of carpet on her fingers and knees.
After months of watching other children doing what her daughter couldn’t and answering people’s questions about Rachael’s abilities, Wilsey watched her 17-month-old daughter take her first steps. Today, Rachael is a thriving six-year-old who loves school, gymnastics, and swimming.
“Definitely get help,” urges Wilsey. “Get whatever treatment you need to teach you the tools so that you can help your child deal with it.”
Liz Consavage Vilato lives in Wappingers Falls with her two daughters, one of whom received Early Intervention.