Children with Special Needs
Acting early can make a big difference.
If you are worried that your child is not meeting the developmental milestones for his or her age, or if you think there could be a problem with the way your child plays, learns, speaks, acts or moves, you can have your child evaluated to see if any interventions are needed.
You can learn about developmental milestones and what is typical for a child at different ages from the Center for Disease Control’s web site at www.cdc.gov/features/trackmilestones/ . These fact sheets show you what to expect as your child develops and provide examples of when you should be concerned. Your child’s pediatrician and child care provider can offer guidance and should be able to screen your child for delays. Acting early can make a big difference.
Early Steps
Ages:
Birth to 3rd Birthday
Information:
Referrals can be made by parents, teachers, pediatricians, etc.
Evaluations for developmental delays and provides services such as occupational therapy, speech language pathology, etc.
If eligible for services, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) will be created to determine supports for you and your child
Services can be provided in child’s natural environment (home, early learning center, etc.)
Contact:
337-359-8748
1-866-494-8900
https://www.firststeps3.com/
referral@firststeps3.com
Child Find / Child Search
Ages:
3-5 years old
Information:
Referrals are made using a “Child Search Form” and can be made by parents, teachers, pediatricians, etc.
Evaluations for developmental delays and provides services such as occupational therapy, speech language pathology, etc.
If eligible for services, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be created to determine supports for your child
Services are coordinated by the Lafayette Parish School System Special Education Department.
Contact:
Lafayette Parish School System Pupil Appraisal
337-521-7135
https://www.lpssonline.com/departments/academics/special-education/index
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