Children develop at different rates and in different ways. Differences in development may be related to personality, temperament, and/or experiences. Some children may also have health needs that affect their development. The first five years are very important in a child’s life. The sooner a concern is identified, the sooner a child and family can receive specialized services to support growth and development. Parents, family members, and caregivers may have concerns about a child’s development and seek help when needed. It is always a good idea for families to discuss any questions they may have with the child’s doctor.

Eligibility Criteria: Ages 0 to 3

Infants and toddlers from birth to age 36 months may be eligible for early intervention services through Early Start if, through documented evaluation and assessment, they meet one of the criteria listed below:

• have a developmental delay of at least 25% in one or more areas of cognitive, expressive communication, receptive communication, social or emotional, adaptive, or physical and motor development including vision and hearing. Developmentally delayed infants and toddlers are those determined to have a significant difference between the expect level of development for their age and their current level of functioning; or
• have established risk conditions of known etiology, with a high probability of resulting in delayed development; or
• be considered at high risk of having a substantial developmental disability due to a combination of biomedical risk factors of which are diagnosed by qualified personnel.

The criteria for determining the eligibility of infants and toddlers is specified in Section 95014 of the California Government Code. Developmental Services Trailer Bill, SB 188 (Chapter 49, Statutes of 2022), effective June 30, 2022, amended Government Code (GC) Section 95014 to expand eligibility for early intervention services under the California Early Intervention Services Act (Early Start).

In addition to meeting eligibility criteria, to qualify for services through Westside Regional Center, the child must reside in our service area. If the child lives outside of our service area, you can find the child’s local Regional Center using the DDS Regional Center Lookup or the Regional Center Listings.

REFERRALS FOR EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES

Anyone can make a referral, including parents, legal guardians or conservators, medical care providers, neighbors, family members, foster parents, and daycare providers. Professionals and concerned persons may make a referral, however, the permission of the parent or legal guardian is necessary. Legally ordered evaluations may come from the courts or the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).