How to Access Early Childhood Intervention Services for a Child in Texas

The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services governs the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) program for the state of Texas. If you have a child under the age of three who may have developmental delays, follow these steps to access early childhood education services for your child.



Step1
Consult with your child's pediatrician regarding what is normal development and then observe your child for potential developmental delays. Documenting your observations and conversations with medical professionals helps with the referral.


Step2
Refer your child to ECI by calling the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Inquiries Line at (800) 628-5115. You'll be given the name and number for your local ECI program.


Step3
Contact your local ECI program and then wait for an ECI staff member to call you for more information. During the call, the staff member works with you to set up a time for an intake interview.


Step4
Participate in the intake interview with the ECI staff member. The staff member will ask more questions about your child, determine if an interdisciplinary evaluation is needed and provide you with information about ECI.


Step5
Attend your child's evaluation if deemed necessary. Most evaluations take place in your child's natural environment. Typically this is the home or a day care center. Evaluators may include the following professionals: physical therapist, speech and language pathologist, occupational therapist or child development specialist.


Step6
Wait to see if your child qualifies for services. Some evaluators will tell you immediately after the evaluation. If you child qualifies, then you will meet with early childhood intervention professionals to write your Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).


Step7
Maintain scheduled appointments for your child's therapy. If you are going to miss an appointment, contact someone immediately to reschedule.


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