Getting started.
Who this helps
Maine children from birth to age three may qualify if they have developmental delays or conditions likely to lead to delays. An assessment helps decide if a child qualifies.
How to get started
Within three business days of receiving a referral, a representative from the regional site serving your town will contact the parent or guardian to discuss concerns and possible screenings or evaluations. If your child qualifies, a service coordinator will help your family make a plan. If your child does not qualify, the program can help identify other resources.
Check regional coverage.
Use the Maine Department of Education’s Early Intervention for ME Regional and State Contacts page and town lookup to find the office serving your town. The Lewiston site serves select towns in the counties named above.
Send a referral.
Use the Online Child Find Intake Submission Form on the Maine Department of Education’s CDS Referrals page, fax the Child Find Intake Form to 207-624-6661, or call the statewide referral line at 877-770-8883. A doctor’s referral is not required.
How they can help.
The Maine Department of Education oversees the statewide program through regional sites. The Lewiston site serves select towns in Androscoggin, Kennebec, Lincoln, and Sagadahoc counties.
- Free assessment of basic developmental skills
- Full evaluation when appropriate
- A service coordinator for the family
- Caregiver strategies for daily routines
- Visits at home, daycare, or another familiar place
- Help planning a transition to special education or other supports
A few questions before you go.
Have the child’s name, birth date, home address, and information about who the child lives with ready. Also have the areas of concern or diagnosed conditions, parent or guardian names and contact details, and the referral source’s name and contact details. If known, include the child’s healthcare provider and any other agencies working with the child or family.
- Could my child qualify for early intervention?
- What information is needed for a referral?
- How soon will I hear back?
- Where could services take place?