Early Start is a program that helps babies and toddlers (from birth to age 3) who need extra support in their development. A child may qualify for these services if they meet one of the following three conditions:

1. Developmental Delay – The child is significantly behind in one or more of the following areas. A delay is considered significant if the child is behind by at least 25% compared to typical development for their age.

• Thinking and learning (cognitive development)
• Fine motor
• Gross motor
• Speaking and understanding (expressive and receptive communication)
• Social or emotional skills
• Self-help skills (adaptive development)

2. Established Risk Condition – The child has a diagnosed condition that is known to cause developmental delays, such as fetal alcohol syndrome.

3. High Risk of Developmental Disability – The child has multiple medical or biological risk factors that make it very likely they will develop a significant disability.

To determine eligibility, professionals (such as doctors, therapists, and educators), along with the child’s parents, will assess the child’s development.