Definition:
ECI stands for Early Childhood Intervention. These federally funded state programs help infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children with developmental delays and disabilities get therapy, including:
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
- Nutrition and feeding advice
- Psychological services
- Social work services
Also called Early Intervention Programs (EIP), they can also evaluate your child if you suspect that he may have a delay in his developmental milestones or if he is at risk for developmental delays, such as being born premature.
Although your pediatrician can refer your child to your state ECI program, you can also usually call yourself and refer your own child, especially if your pediatrician doesn't share your concerns about your child's possible developmental delays.
In general, children under age 2 or 3 are evaluated by their community ECI program. Depending on which state you live in, children 3 and over will be evaluated by their local school district, even though they aren't in school yet. The director of special education for your local school district will usually help you get an evaluation or services for these older children.
Pronunciation: E.C.I.
Also Known As: Early Intervention
Examples: In addition to discussing it with their pediatrician, parents who are concerned about their child's development can seek an evaluation from their local ECI program.
