Getting started.
Who this helps
Maine children from birth to age three who show developmental delays or have conditions likely to lead to delays may qualify.
How to get started
If the child qualifies, the team develops an Individualized Family Service Plan based on the family’s daily activities and priorities. A service coordinator guides the family through the process.
Start a referral.
Call Early Intervention for ME at 877-770-8883 or submit the Early Intervention for ME online referral form.
Share child details.
Provide the child’s name, birth date, address, who the child lives with, concerns or diagnoses, and caregiver contact details. If known, include the child’s primary health care provider and other agencies working with the family.
Watch for a response.
Within three business days, a representative from the regional site serving the child’s town will contact the parent or guardian to discuss concerns and possible screenings or evaluations.
How they can help.
The Maine Department of Education oversees the program through regional sites. Specialists work with caregivers to build plans around family goals and a child’s everyday routines.
- Free assessment of a child’s basic developmental skills
- Full evaluation to check eligibility when appropriate
- Support from a service coordinator
- Strategies caregivers can use during everyday routines
- Services at home, daycare, or another familiar setting
- Support from therapists and educators as needed
- Family plans reviewed every six months and adjusted as needed
A few questions before you go.
Have the child’s name, date of birth, physical address, who the child lives with, areas of concern or diagnosed conditions, and parent or guardian contact details ready. If known, share the child’s primary health care provider and other agencies working with the family.
- Which regional site serves my town?
- What happens during my child’s evaluation?
- Who might be on my child’s team?
- What happens if my child does not qualify?