Starting Early Intervention (EI) is an important step for your child and family. While you may be waiting for services to begin, or preparing for the transition out of EI at age three, there are many resources designed to support you. These tools can help you engage your child in meaningful activities right away, understand your rights as a family, and navigate the complex process of moving from EI to your local school district.

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Learn About Development and Play

These resources give you ideas for activities you can do with your child at home while waiting for EI services to begin.

• SPEAK-Up | Lurie Children’s
  Helps families promote speech, language, and communication development.

• Pathways.org | Baby Games
  Play-based activities that support motor, sensory, and communication skills.

• CDC’s Developmental Milestones | Learn the Signs. Act Early.
  Tools and checklists to track development and recognize when to act early.

Know Your Rights in Early Intervention

Understanding your rights ensures your family’s voice is heard throughout the EI journey.

• Family Rights in EI Video Series (YouTube)
  Short videos about family rights in EI.

• Family Rights in Early Intervention | Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
  A plain-language guide to protections and decision-making in EI.

• Early Intervention Timelines and Your Rights | Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
  An overview of what to expect and when during your time in EI.

• When I’m 3, Where Will I Be?
  A booklet that helps families prepare for the transition from EI to school district services at age three.

Medical and Eligibility Information

• IDHS: Early Intervention Medical Conditions Resulting in a High Probability of Developmental Delay
  A list of diagnoses and conditions that may qualify a child for EI.

Family Advocacy and Support

These organizations provide advocacy, legal support, and parent-to-parent guidance as you navigate EI and beyond.

• Equip for Equality

• Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center

• Family Resource Center on Disabilities (FRCD)

• Parent Training and Information Centers | Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse

Staying Connected to EI Services

• Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
  Central hub for Illinois EI information and resources.

• Live Video Visits and Telehealth | Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
  Information on accessing EI services virtually.

Why These Resources Matter

These resources can help your family in two powerful ways:

1. Activities while waiting – Developmental play, communication strategies, and milestone checklists help you support your child even before services begin.

2. Smooth transitions – Guides and advocacy tools help you understand your rights and prepare for the move from EI into the school district at age three.