Early Intervention Services
Child and Family Connections (CFC): Early Intervention Support in Illinois
Child and Family Connections (CFC) serves as the primary entry point for Illinois' Early Intervention (EI) services, assisting families with children under three years old who have, or are at risk of, developmental delays. Regional Office of Education (ROE) #8
Services Offered:
Developmental Screenings and Evaluations: Assessments to identify potential delays in areas such as physical, cognitive, communication, social-emotional, and adaptive development. Clearbrook
Therapeutic Services: Access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and more, tailored to each child's unique needs. cicfc.org
Family Support: Guidance and resources to empower families in supporting their child's development effectively.
Accessing Services:
Locate Your Regional CFC Office: Illinois has 25 CFC offices, each serving specific geographic areas. To find the office nearest you, use the Illinois Department of Human Services' Office Locator. Regional Office of Education (ROE) #8+6providerconnections.org+6IDHS+6IDHS+1IDHS+1
Initiate Contact: Reach out to your regional CFC office to discuss your concerns and begin the intake process.
Evaluation and Planning: CFC will coordinate evaluations to determine eligibility and, if qualified, collaborate with you to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) outlining tailored services. Clearbrook
By connecting with your local CFC office, you can access comprehensive support to enhance your child's developmental journey during these critical early years.
First Steps: Missouri's Early Intervention Program
First Steps is Missouri's Early Intervention system designed to support families with infants and toddlers, from birth to three years old, who have developmental delays or diagnosed conditions associated with developmental disabilities. The program aims to enhance children's development, learning, and participation in family and community life by providing coordinated services tailored to each child's unique needs. Missouri Secretary of State+10speciallearningcenter.com+10MO Department of Education+10mofirststeps.com+1Abilities First+1
Services Offered:
Developmental Screenings and Evaluations: Assessments to identify potential delays in areas such as cognitive, communication, adaptive, physical (including vision and hearing), and social-emotional development. DMH Missouri
Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP): A customized plan outlining specific services and supports to address the child's developmental needs, developed in collaboration with the family. MO Department of Education
Therapeutic Services: Access to services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and other interventions to promote development and learning.
Family Support and Education: Resources and guidance to empower families in supporting their child's development within their daily routines and activities. oembed-dese.mo.gov
Accessing First Steps Services:
Make a Referral: Parents or professionals can refer a child to First Steps by contacting the program directly. Referrals can be made by calling toll-free at 1-866-583-2392 or by visiting the Missouri First Steps website. Abilities First+1mofirststeps.com+1
Intake and Evaluation: After a referral is made, a Service Coordinator will gather information about the child's development and coordinate evaluations to determine eligibility for the program. MO Department of Education
Develop an IFSP: If the child is eligible, the family and a team of professionals will collaboratively develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) to outline the services and supports needed.
Service Delivery: Services are provided in natural environments, such as the child's home or community settings, to promote learning and development within daily routines.
Participation in First Steps is voluntary and aims to empower families with the tools and resources necessary to support their child's growth and development effectively.