What is Early Intervention:

Early Intervention, before the age of 5, has been shown to significantly affect the prognosis of children diagnosed with autism and other developmental disorders. Therapies may include any or all of: behavioral intervention (such as ABA), occupational therapy (including sensory integration therapy), physical therapy, and speech therapy.

Referrals to early intervention can be made by the family, physician, or government agency.

Infant and Toddler Connection of Virginia is the State of Virginia's early intervention system. For more information, please visit: www.earlyintervention-va.com

The Chesapeake Center is one of Virginia's largest providers of Early Intervention Services. We provide Early Intervention Services including multi-disciplinary evaluations in the child's natural environment. Our therapy clinicians meet or exceed the state's highest level of credentialing standards for providing Early Intervention Services.

Chesapeake is under contract with your child's Infant Toddler program to provide your child's therapy services as specified by your Individualized Family Services Plan (IFSP).

• Alexandria Parent infant Education Program
• The Infant and Toddler Connection of Fairfax and Falls Church
• The Infant and Toddler Connection of Arlington
• Prince William County

What to Expect from an Early Intervention Visit

Our focus is on providing appropriate levels of quality therapy services to all children, to help parents assist their children in accomplishing all that they can. Our therapists are experienced in developing fun, appropriate, and helpful activities for carryover by family members to maximize each child's potential.

10 Tips to Maximize Early Intervention Services

1. Be present for the entire session - We are here to help you learn ways to affect your child's development
2. Actively interact with your child during the session
3. Ask questions!!!
4. Make sure that you fully understand the home program
5. Do the home program daily
6. Be prepared to tell your therapist about your child's week
7. Share activities with family members and encourage them to help
8. Plan to have your early intervention sessions in locations in your home or community that your child frequents daily
9. Make every effort to keep each scheduled appointment. Please contact your therapist as soon as you know you must change the schedule. No shows or frequently missed appointments may be referred to the program for possible re-assignment.
10. Have fun with your child!!!!!