First Steps early intervention services are for families with children under the age of 3 who are experiencing a developmental delay.
For First Steps, a child must exhibit a delay of 25% in one area of development or a 20% delay in two or more areas of development. These areas are:
- Cognitive development
- Communication development
- Physical development (gross motor, fine motor)
- Social/emotional development
- Adaptive/self-help skills
Or have a diagnosed physical or medical condition that makes it likely that they will develop a delay, such as:
- Chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Congenital disorders
- Sensory impairments, including vision and hearing
- Severe toxic exposure (pre- and post-natal exposure)
- Neurological abnormality in the newborn period
- Low birth weight (1500 grams/3.1 pounds)