How do I enroll a child in Via's Early Intervention program?
In Pennsylvania, the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) administers Early Intervention through the counties’ Mental Health and Mental Retardation offices until a child’s third birthday. Via receives referrals from Lehigh and Northampton counties after a parent has contacted their county’s Early Intervention department to get their child enrolled in this program.
County service coordinators work with families to coordinate services for their child and refer them to a program like Via’s Early Intervention program. When a child turns three, the Department of Education takes over the supervision of the programs, through the Intermediate Units (IUs).
How does the Early Intervention process begin and what can I expect?
When a child qualifies for Early intervention Services, they are assigned a service coordinator through their county Early Intervention department The county service coordinator establishes a service plan with the family, Early Intervention specialist and caregivers which includes desired outcomes for the child and frequency and duration of services. Sessions are designed to include participation from caregivers so intervention therapies can continue outside of the structured session.
How much does the Early Intervention program cost?
Early Intervention is a state-wide program provided through Medicare. It is an entitlement program and is available to all families at no cost, regardless of household income.
For more information, contact:
Marisa Nimtien, Director of Children's Services
m.nimtien@vianet.org
• 484-893-5379
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