Is Early Steps (Louisiana) a Good Resource for my Child?

What EarlySteps Does

EarlySteps provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers who have developmental delays or medical conditions likely to cause delays. The goal is to strengthen the family’s ability to support their child’s development through therapy, coaching, and individualized supports.

Who EarlySteps Serves

EarlySteps supports:

• Infants and toddlers from birth through age 2 (up to 35 months)

• Children with delays in:

  • Cognitive skills

  • Motor skills

  • Vision or hearing

  • Communication

  • Social‑emotional development

  • Adaptive/self‑help skills

• Children with medical conditions that are likely to result in developmental delays.

Who May Refer a Child to EarlySteps

Anyone can make a referral, including:

• Parents or guardians

• Pediatricians or other medical providers

• Childcare providers

• Social workers

• Community agencies

• Family members There are no restrictions—any concerned individual may refer a child.

Referrals are made through the System Point of Entry (SPOE) for each region.

Where Services Take Place

EarlySteps services are delivered in the child’s natural environment, such as:

• The child’s home

• Childcare centers

• Community settings typical for children ages birth to 2 This approach helps children learn skills in places where they naturally spend time.

What the Intake Process Looks Like

Once a referral is made:

1. SPOE receives the referral.

2. A coordinator contacts the family to begin the eligibility determination process.

3. The family participates in evaluations and assessments to determine whether the child qualifies.

4. If eligible, the team works with the family to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), outlining services and goals.

What Happens When a Child Ages Out (After 35 Months)

While the page does not explicitly detail transition options, Louisiana’s standard pathway after EarlySteps includes:

1. Transition to the Local School System (Part B Services)

Most children move into:

• Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)

• Services under IDEA Part B, beginning at age 3 This may include preschool special education, speech therapy, OT/PT, or other supports.

2. Community‑Based Programs

Families may choose:

• Head Start / Early Head Start

• Private preschool programs

• Childcare centers with developmental supports

3. Continued Medical or Private Therapies

If needed, families may continue:

• Speech therapy

• Occupational therapy

• Physical therapy through private insurance, Medicaid, or community providers.

4. Local Early Intervention or Developmental Programs

Some regions offer additional developmental services outside of EarlySteps.