Service Resource Library
Early Start Services
Early Start Services Overview
(Birth–Age 3)
Early Start is California’s early intervention program for infants and toddlers from birth to age 3 who have a developmental delay or are at risk for a developmental disability. At San Andreas Regional Center, Early Start focuses on supporting a child’s development while empowering families during the early years.
How to Get Help
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Talk with your Service Coordinator about Early Start services
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To learn more, visit:
Early Start Services at San Andreas Regional Center
How the Regional Center Helps
The Regional Center supports children and families by coordinating services and filling gaps between services provided by:
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Health insurance
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Medical providers
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Community early childhood programs
The Regional Center does not replace services that medical insurance or other programs are responsible for providing.
Your Service Coordinator
Each family is assigned a Service Coordinator who helps guide them through Early Start. The Service Coordinator:
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Helps with evaluations and eligibility
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Reviews the child’s needs regularly
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Develops an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) with the family
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Connects families to appropriate services and resources
Important to Know
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By law, the Regional Center cannot pay for services that insurance or other programs already cover
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Some services may require a share of cost or must meet Early Start and Regional Center guidelines
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Services are provided in natural environments, such as the home or community, whenever possible
Services are based on each child’s needs and may include:
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Developmental evaluations and assessments
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Infant Development / Early Intervention services
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Speech and language therapy
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Occupational therapy
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Physical therapy
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Behavioral intervention, when appropriate
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Assistive technology
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Family training, education, and home visits
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Parent–child groups and socialization opportunities
Every Plan Is Different
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Each child’s services are individualized based on their needs and family priorities
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Two children with the same diagnosis may receive different services
Planning for the Transition at Age 3
As a child approaches age 3, the Service Coordinator helps families plan for the transition to:
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School district services
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Preschool special education programs
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Ongoing community supports
Service Coordination
A Service Coordinator works with the family to assess needs, develop the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), and connect them to services.
Developmental Assessment & Evaluation
Evaluations to understand the child’s strengths, needs, and developmental delays.
Speech and Language Therapy
Support for communication, understanding language, and expressive speech.
Occupational Therapy (OT
Helps with fine motor skills, sensory processing, feeding, and daily activities.
Physical Therapy (PT)
Supports gross motor development such as crawling, walking, balance, and strength.
Infant Development Services / Early Intervention
In-home or community-based developmental support focusing on learning through play and routines.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) / Behavioral Intervention
When appropriate, to support developmental skills and reduce challenging behaviors.
Family Training, Counseling, and Home Visits
Education and coaching to help families support their child’s development in everyday activities.
Assistive Technology
Devices or tools that help a child communicate or participate more fully in daily life.
Socialization or Parent–Child Groups
Opportunities for children and caregivers to learn, play, and connect with other families.
Transition Planning
Support to help families prepare for the transition from Early Start to school district services at age