The short answer
Two or more professionals look at how your child plays, moves, talks, and learns. This is called a multidisciplinary evaluation. It is free, and it shows if your child is eligible for services.
What are the steps?
- You refer your child to the city or county. In New York City, call 311, use the city’s online portal, or send us a referral.
- The city or county gives you an initial service coordinator. This person explains the program and helps you choose an evaluator from a list that New York State approves.
- You and your coordinator decide where the evaluation happens: at home or at the evaluation agency.
- You give written consent. The evaluation does not start without it.
- The professionals evaluate your child.
- You and the evaluation team meet to talk about the results and whether your child is eligible.
What does the evaluation include?
- A health assessment, with a vision and hearing screening. Your child’s doctor often does this part. A recent checkup may be enough.
- A look at your child’s strengths and needs in each area of development: learning, movement, communication, relating to others, and self-help skills.
- An interview with you about your concerns and what your child is like.
- With your consent, a review of your child’s earlier records.
- A talk about transportation, if services will take place outside your home.
Is a screening the same as an evaluation?
No. A screening is a short check for milestones. An evaluation is a full look at every area of development. You can ask for a full evaluation, whatever the screening shows.
Will the evaluators understand my family?
The evaluation must respect your family’s culture and the languages you speak at home. You can also take part in a family assessment, where you share what your family wants from services. It is voluntary, and you decide what goes in the plan.
What happens if my child is eligible?
You and the team write an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). It lists the services your child needs, and Early Intervention approves them before they start.
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: Your child’s evaluation (opens in a new tab)
- New York State Department of Health: Parent’s questions and answers (opens in a new tab)
- NYC Health: Early Intervention (opens in a new tab)
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your child’s doctor about your child.