Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a wonderful opportunity for children with developmental delays or other disabilities and their families to begin an intervention program that will support children in making as much progress as possible during the important very early years from birth to 3 years. Services may include evaluation, screenings and assessments; developmental services; speech, occupational or physical therapy; family-centered intervention; and case management to explore a range of local resources and plan for the future. These services are available in every state in the country, and the Federal Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that these important supports are available to all families. Services are either free or based upon a sliding scale, depending on the number of children in the family and family income; however, no child is denied services because of funding.
Most children with Down syndrome will have been diagnosed either prenatally or at birth. Beginning intervention and support services as early as possible is a key to your child’s long-term positive outcomes. The sooner that services begin, the greater the chance that delay in developmental skills can be lessened. ECI supports will end on the child’s third birthday when they become eligible for services through the local public school.
It is possible to be overwhelmed during the first weeks or months of your child’s life. Remember that there is support available for you and your child from the time they are born through ECI’s staff of early childhood specialists, therapists, and social workers. Contact your local ECI program as soon as possible after your child’s birth to take advantage of the services and support they can offer.
Based on the results of the evaluation and assessment, your team develops a plan for services, also known as the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Services are based on the needs and concerns of each family and child. ECI professionals and family members incorporate activities into daily routines to promote the child's development.
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), evaluations, assessments, and IFSPs are provided at no cost to parents.
ECI providers work with the child and family in familiar settings where they live, learn, and play. Services are provided in the home and in the community, which could include child care facilities, grocery stores, parks, and restaurants.
Case management: Service coordinators help families access and receive the services, resources and supports they need to support their child's development. Supports include helping the child and family transition to special education services or other options, as appropriate for children exiting ECI at age 3. ECI provides comprehensive case management for all members of the child's family as their needs relate to the child's growth and development.
ECI services end when the child turns 3. Well before that time, the ECI team, including the family, decides on the next steps. Children may transition to public school, preschool, Head Start, child care centers, or other community activities and programs, or they may stay home with their family. For children who need further intervention services, the goal is a smooth transition with no service gaps.
ECI services are available in all parts of the state. For detailed explanations of available services and identification of the local agency responsible for providing services in your area please visit the Texas Health and Human Services website.
You can search for the ECI Program in your area based on city, county or zip code at the ECI Program Search website.
There are three agencies providing Early Childhood Intervention services in the San Antonio Bexar County area. Each agency supports specific zip-code areas. These local agencies are:
Brighton Center
14207 Higgins
San Antonio, TX 78217
Referral Number: (210) 826-4492
Center for Health Care Services
5802 South Presa Street
San Antonio, TX 78223
Referral Number: (210) 261-3300
Easter Seals of Central Texas
2203 Babcock Road
San Antonio, TX 78229
Referral Number: (210) 614-3911
ECI asks families who can afford to do so to share in the cost of services. This is called the Family Cost Share. The amount a family pays for services is determined using a sliding-fee scale and is based on family size and income, after allowable deductions. No child or family will be turned away because of an inability to pay.
The following services are provided at no cost:
- Evaluation and assessment
- Case management
- IFSP development
- Translation and interpreter services, including sign language
These initial services help identify your child's strengths and needs, as well as locate resources to meet those needs. You may be asked for permission to bill your or your child's insurance for these services.
How do I make a referral for my child?
What services will my child be eligible for?
How is the decision made as to which services my child needs?
Who will conduct the evaluation(s) that will be done? What are the qualifications of these individuals?
Where will each of these services be provided?
How much progress can I expect my child to make in the ECI program?
Must I have insurance to participate in the program?
Will someone help me learn how to support my child at home?
My spouse and I both need to work. Can we still participate in the program? Can you help us find childcare that understands my child’s needs
Transportation is difficult for our family. Must we come to your offices to receive ECI services?