Early Intervention Myths DEBUNKED

Navigating the word of early intervention can be overwhelming and confusing. There are also a huge number of misconceptions that can cause even more confusion and difficulty accessing crucial services. Let's debunk common myths surrounding early intervention, empowering you with accurate information to confidently seek the best support for your child's unique journey.

MYTH:

You should wait until your child is older to see if they catch up.

TRUTH:

Families are often told to wait until their child is THREE or even FIVE before seeking out services. By that point they have missed free early intervention services and they have missed crucial development windows. The earlier intervention is provided, the more of an impact it makes on the child's development. Never “wait and see”!

MYTH:

Early intervention is only for children with severe disabilities.

TRUTH:

Early intervention serves infants and toddlers age 0-3 with a wide range of delays and disabilities, from speech delays to physical and cognitive challenges.

MYTH:

If a child’s pediatrician does not mention a concern, there is nothing to worry about.

TRUTH:

Doctors do not always catch delays and often are not able to spend much time with children.  Parents are usually the first to notice a concern. Trust your instincts. 

MYTH: You need a formal diagnosis from a doctor to access early intervention services.

TRUTH:

Parents can directly contact early intervention programs in all states to request evaluations.

No doctor visit, referral, or diagnosis is required!

MYTH: Participating in early intervention means a child will be labeled or automatically placed in special education later.

TRUTH:

Early intervention is separate from the school district. Many children catch up with their peers and do not require special education.  But if your child needs continued help, the EI team can assist with the transition.

MYTH:

Early intervention is expensive.

TRUTH:

Early intervention is provided in all states at very little cost (most often at zero cost) through federal and state funding.

MYTH:

Early intervention will take up too much time or disrupt the family routine.

TRUTH: Services are designed to be family-centered and flexible.  Intervention teams collaborate with families to help their child participate in their daily activities and in their natural environment (at home or their daycare).

Please reach out to us with any questions you may have.

If you live in California, you can click the button below to search for your local Regional Center and request an Early Intervention assessment.

Local Regional Centers

If you live outside of California, you can click the button below to find your state's Early Intervention agency.

All State's EI Agencies

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Written by Rachel Troccoli, M.A., CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder & Executive Director of Skyrocket

Skyrocket Pediatric Therapy Foundation (Skyrocket) does not provide medical or legal advice or services. Skyrocket provides general information about developmental disabilities and developmental therapies as a service to the community. The information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals. Skyrocket has not validated and is not responsible for any information, events, or services provided by third parties. The views and opinions expressed in blogs on our website do not necessarily reflect the views of Skyrocket.