Young children grow and learn so much during their first three years. The changes babies and toddlers go through are made up of different skills, like walking and talking. These skills, or developmental milestones, usually happen by certain ages. Although each child is special and develops at his or her own pace, watching to see when your child reaches these milestones can help you know how your child is developing.

All children need support as they grow and learn, but some children with disabilities or development delays face unique challenges and need extra help. This extra help is called Early Childhood Intervention (ECI). ECI helps babies and toddlers from birth to three with development delays or significant medical problems. ECI partners with families to help children grow, learn and stay healthy. Parents and professionals work together as a team. The team develops a plan for services and assess the child's progress. Services are provided to children and families in familiar and convenient surroundings where children live, learn and play. This may include the family's home or child care center. Children learn new skills through everyday activities. Team members from a variety of backgrounds work together to find learning opportunities within the family's normal routines such as bath time, meal time or play time. ECI works with doctors, child care providers, WIC, social services and schools to help improve the lives of children and families.
 
Families of all income levels receive ECI services. There is no income limit. No family is turned away because of an inability to pay.
 
ECI professionals include: Early Intervention Specialists, Registered Nurses, Social Workers, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech/language Pathologists, Hearing and Vision Specialists, and Professional Counselors.
 
Counties served are Coke, Concho, Crockett, Edwards, Irion, Runnels, Schleicher, Sterling, Sutton, Tom Green and Val Verde.

It's important to start EARLY. Early Intervention provides immediate and long-term benefits for children and families If you are concerned about a child, don't wait. Call and find out more about ECI services.

ECI local program in San Angelo - (325) 658-6571 or in Del Rio - (830) 774-1156

 Paula Jolley - Program Director

Tara Wiley - San Angelo Team Leader

Lena Bermea - Del Rio Team Leader

Christi Alvarado - Finance Specialist I