Steps to Enrollment

Any child from birth to kindergarten age with developmental concerns may be referred.

Areas of concern may include communication, cognitive, motor, self-care or adaptive, and social skills. Referrals are made by parents, physicians, public health nurses, and preschool teachers with consent from parents.

1. Referral

Referrals come from parents, physicians, preschool teachers and others.

2. Developmental Review

A developmental specialist contacts the child’s family to discuss the child’s development.

3. Eligibility evaluations

Qualified specialists evaluate the child’s development.

4. Eligibility Determination

Evaluation results are shared at an educational team meeting of parents and Early Childhood CARES staff.

5. Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP)

Team members identify the child’s current levels of development, what the child needs to learn, and family goals.

6. Placement

Services and where they will be provided are identified based on IFSP goals.