The short answer
A child under 3 is eligible if they have a diagnosed condition that often leads to delays, or a delay in at least one area of development that meets New York State criteria. A free evaluation decides.
What are the two ways to be eligible?
- A diagnosed condition. Some physical or mental conditions often lead to developmental delays. A child with one of these conditions is eligible.
- A developmental delay. The delay is in at least one area of development and meets the criteria in New York State regulations.
What are the areas of development?
- Cognitive: learning and thinking
- Physical: growth, vision, hearing, and large and small movements
- Communication: understanding and using words
- Social-emotional: relating to others
- Adaptive: self-help skills, such as eating
Who decides if my child is eligible?
An evaluation decides. Two or more professionals look at how your child plays, moves, talks, and learns. This is called a multidisciplinary evaluation. It costs you nothing.
Every referral goes to the city or county where you live. In New York City, that is the city. You do not have to know if your child is eligible before you refer.
What if my child is 3 or older?
Early Intervention serves children from birth to age 3. A child who is 3 or older may be eligible for preschool special education through the Committee on Preschool Special Education in your school district.
How do I start?
You do not need a doctor’s referral. Any parent can refer their child.
In New York City, call 311 and ask for Early Intervention, or use the city’s online referral portal. You can also send us a referral, and a staff member calls you back.
Sources
- New York State Department of Health: Parent’s questions and answers (opens in a new tab)
- New York State Department of Health: Your child’s evaluation (opens in a new tab)
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your child’s doctor about your child.