What is Early Intervention?

The Early Intervention Program (EIP) is a public program for infants and toddlers with special needs. Children with diagnosed conditions that lead to developmental delays (such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, etc.) are eligible for the EIP. Children with no diagnosis who have delays in development may be eligible for the EIP if their delays are serious enough.

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To connect a child under three years old to the NYC Early Intervention Program, submit a referral any time by using the NYC EI Referral Portal at: nyc.gov/health/ei-referral or by calling 311 and asking for Early Intervention. For more information, visit nyc.gov/health and search for “early intervention”. Someone else can help you make the referral to the Early Intervention Program if you wish. If your child is found to be eligible for services by someone approved to perform this evaluation, you, NYC staff, and other team members will make a plan to help your child - and your family.

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Early intervention services in your plan and authorized by the county (any of NYC 5 boroughs) are provided at no cost to you. The county will arrange for the services to be provided and will choose the provider based on the needs of your child and family. Your child's health insurance may be used to cover some of the costs. All other costs for EIP services are paid for by your county and New York State.

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Early intervention services are provided where it's best for the child - in places such as your home, day care, or other community settings. The EIP covers the cost of early intervention services only. The EIP does not pay for day care or other fees charged by community settings.

Roots To Grow is approved by New York State and has a contract(s) with NYC and all 5 boroughs to provide the following early intervention services Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Service Coordination, ABA, Special Instruction, and Occupational Therapy.