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Related Experiment Videos

First experiences with early intervention: a national perspective.

Donald B Bailey1, Kathleen Hebbeler, Anita Scarborough

  • 1Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA. don_bailey@unc.edu

Pediatrics
|April 3, 2004
PubMed
Summary

Most families report positive initial experiences with early intervention services for children with disabilities, though some groups face delays and inequities. This highlights the need for improved access and support for all families navigating these crucial services.

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Area of Science:

  • Child Development
  • Special Education
  • Public Health Policy

Background:

  • Early intervention services are mandated for young children with disabilities under Part C of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act.
  • Previous research indicated general family satisfaction, but lacked national representativeness and focused less on initial experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess families' initial experiences with early intervention, including eligibility determination, medical interactions, service access, and planning participation.
  • To evaluate overall satisfaction with early intervention services and professional interactions.

Main Methods:

  • A nationally representative sample of 3338 parents of young children recently entering early intervention programs were interviewed.
  • Data collected focused on the timeline of diagnosis, referral, service planning, and family perceptions of the process.

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Main Results:

  • Most families reported positive initial experiences, finding medical professionals helpful and services accessible and relevant to their needs.
  • Average age for concerns was 7.4 months, diagnosis at 8.8 months, referral at 14 months, and service plan at 15.7 months.
  • Minority, low-income, and less-educated families reported more negative experiences, including delays and lack of awareness of written service plans.

Conclusions:

  • The initial phase of early intervention services is generally successful and responsive, supporting pediatrician referrals.
  • Targeted strategies are needed to ensure timely and appropriate services for all families, particularly vulnerable populations.
  • Further research and local evaluations are crucial for improving the early intervention system's equity and effectiveness.