Module 4, Handout 5 for information on the California Early Intervention Services Act.

Module 4, Handout 5 for Information on the California Early Intervention Services Act

The California Early Intervention Services Act (CEISA) was implemented in 1993 for children 0-3 years of age in order to, “Provide a statewide system of coordinated, comprehensive, family-centered, multidisciplinary, interagency programs, responsible for providing appropriate early intervention services and supports to eligible infants and toddlers and their families”. This means:

· Early intervention services are provided to infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.

· Early intervention services are provided at no cost to the families and are funded by State and Federal funds.

· Early intervention services are a part of a statewide multiagency system that encourages partnerships between families and professionals, and provides family support and coordination of services.

Services are based on the developmental needs of the child, concerns and priorities of the family and resources available to them.

In California, early intervention services are provided through Early Start, which is collaboration between the Department of Developmental Services and coordination with the following agencies:

- California Department of Education

- Department of Health

- Department of Social Services

- Department of Mental Health

- Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs

- Interagency Coordinating Council

For more information on the California Early Intervention Services Act:

State of California, Department of Developmental Services. California Early Intervention Services Act. http://www.dds.ca.gov/statutes/governmentcode.cfm