Children develop rapidly in the first few years of life. It is essential that they acquire their milestones on time so that they are able to achieve academic, social and personal success. The development of motor, language, social, cognitive and self-help skills lays the foundation of a baby’s future. Hence, if you suspect a problem with your child’s development, it’s imperative to identify and intervene as soon as possible.
Early intervention is the set of services for very young children who are discovered to have or be at risk of developing a handicapping condition or other special need that may affect their development. Such a program can help in reducing the effects of the delay/condition that the child has been diagnosed with. Early intervention can be remedial or preventive in nature.
Early intervention programs typically focus on the child and families together. These therapy programs may be centre-based, home-based, hospital-based, or a combination. Early intervention may begin at any time between birth and school age; however, the earlier the child is intervened the higher are his chances of improvement and success.