PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS GUIDE

Parents, families and caregivers who suspect that their child has developmental delays or disabilities have many resources available to help them.  At Therapeutic Resources we are committed to helping families find the resources that they need for their child.

What can you do if you suspect that there is something wrong with your young child?
If you notice that your young child (ages 0-3) is not developing like other children their age - you may seek out professionals to perform an evaluation to identify whether the problem is significant and requires intervention.

What is Early Intervention?
Early Intervention is a program that provides services to children from birth to age three who have, or are at risk of having a developmental disability.  Services are provided at no cost to the family of eligible children.  Therapeutic Resources Early Intervention Program is funded and regulated by the New York State Department of Health and, in New York City, by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

How can I get my child referred to EI?
If you have concerns about your child's development, you can call 311 to refer your child.  You may also contact Jennifer Stucklen in our Early Intervention Department at 212.589.1213 if you need assistance in referring your child.  If your child is found to be eligible for services based on the evaluations performed, an intervention plan will be developed with you and your members of your county team.

What should you do if your child is older than three when you notice something is wrong?
A child who reaches three years of age who may need special services should be referred to their community school district’s Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE).  The district will arrange for a comprehensive evaluation to determine if the child is eligible for special education services.  Eligible children will receive services at no cost to the family.

If you suspect that your preschool child has an educationally disabling condition you must submit a written referral to the chairperson of the CPSE in your community school district. 

To find your contacts within NYC, identify your community school districts, and seek more information about the preschool referral process please note the following links:
http://maps.nycboe.net/index.asp?street=103RD%20ST&addBoro=4&hsenum=52025%20&action=addGeo
To get a list of community school districts

www.vesid.nysed.gov/specialed/publication/policy/parentguide.htm
A guide for families about laws, regulating policies and resources, related to special eucation services, and rights in NYS.