Abstract:

Early intervention refers to a transdisciplinary program which is developed for to maximize the development of the children between 0 to 3 years of age whose development is different than expected developmental level of their age, children at risk, or children who are diagnosed with developmental disability or delay. Early intervention is a continued process for 3 to 5 years of age children who needs developmental support under the name of “early childhood special education or preschool special education” than continued under the name of “special education”. Early intervention process consists of several steps. It is essential to keep a systematic progress according to these steps in order to receive most effective results. The steps that guides to the early intervention process are (1) Application, (2) Assessment, (3) Diagnosis, (4) Information/ reference, (5) Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), (6) Service Coordination, (7) 6 months IFSP Review, (8) Annual IFSP Update, (9) Transition Process. It is most beneficial to keep in mind that the family is the most important member of the early intervention team and to use transdisciplinary approach in every step. This article explains what kind of work can be done in each step of the early intervention process. 

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