Early Intervention (EI) Program provides services to children from birth until they turn 3, who have a developmental delay or disability. It also provides developmental monitoring to "at-risk" children. As of January, 2011, all referrals to EI from the Administration for Children's Services (or agencies operating programs under contract with ACS) must be called into the new EI referral hotline at 1-877-885-5439 (KIDZ). The EI hotline is staffed weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm. ACS and foster care staff are mandated to refer any child under the age of 3 who is the subject of an indicated case of abuse or neglect to the EI hotline. The new hotline replaces the paper referral process for all ACS and foster care agency staff. Problems or questions regarding the status of a referral should be directed to the Regional Offices.

Birth or adoptive parents may continue to make referrals by faxing a referral form to the borough office where the child resides. EI is a voluntary program and consent from birth parent is necessary. A surrogate may also be appointed in certain circumstances. Determination for consent and surrogacy is made by an Early Intervention Designated Official. If there is a consensus that the child will need further services through CPSE, the transition should be initiated as they approach their third birthday.

Questions about the EI referral process or requests for in-depth training, please contact ACS' Office of Education Support and Policy Planning.