Missouri First Steps - Early Intervention Program

Few parents know that if their child is born with a disability, their child immediately qualifies for many services, including medical help, through the public-school system. The first three years of a child’s life are crucial for the growth and development of basic skills. These include learning a language, eating, crawling, and playing. Children who have suffered birth injuries, or those who have developmental delays or disabilities, often need special assistance learning these skills. With early intervention programs, families can learn practical ways to help their disabled children grow and develop important skills. Early intervention programs fall under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Each year, thousands of children across the U.S. receive assistance from early intervention programs.

Early Intervention Programs in Missouri & Kansas

In the state of Missouri, the early intervention program, known as First Steps, is run by the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. It is designed to support the development of crucial skills in disabled children from birth up to 3 years of age. In the state of Kansas, the early intervention program, known as the Kansas Infant-Toddler Services or Tiny K, is run by the Kansas Department of Health and Education (KDHE).

Early Intervention programs provide a variety of services, including:

  • Early assessment, screening, and identification
  • Physical therapy
  • Family training and counseling
  • Occupational therapy
  • Vision services
  • Speech-language pathology, sign language, and audiology services
  • Assistive technology devices and services
  • Psychological services
  • Home visits
  • Social work services

Missouri First Steps and Kansas Infant-Toddler Services provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and coordinated assistance to children struggling with disabilities and developmental delays. From learning language and communication skills to socializing and playing with others, the early intervention systems teach kids how to learn and grow despite their physical or mental handicaps.

If your child has suffered a birth injury, Cullan & Cullan is here to help. With more than $350 million won in settlements on behalf of clients, our Missouri and Kansas birth injury attorneys, who are also doctors, will discuss your options for pursuing justice. Contact us today or dial (816) 253-8606 for a free consultation.

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