Four Steps to Selecting an Early Intervention Provider

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early intervention - 3 monthsteli’s Four Steps to Selecting an Early Intervention Provider

You are worried about your child and you want to find the best support in an Early Intervention provider. But what is important to look for when considering all the potential providers?

Tracy A. Zeiler, M.Ed., Director of Early Intervention at teli has had more than 20 years of experience helping families understand the importance of selecting the right provider. “At teli, we have identified four key steps that we recommend to parents when considering an Early Intervention provider.” says Tracy, “They have found it can be very helpful when making that very important decision in their child’s future.”

1. Research the providers.

Do your homework!   Check provider websites to get a sense of their experience in the field. Has the provider been offering services for a long period of time?  Does their listing of their staff members provide the number of years with the provider? Tenure is a very good indicator of the strength of a provider.   Check for credentials that indicate the staff is well educated and versed in their specialty.  Check provider social media such as facebook to get a sense of their professional   activities along with comments regarding their service.

2. Talk to other parents.

Ask around in your social circles, families, neighborhoods, or schools. Reach out to other parents who have used Early Intervention Services.  Get opinions about what they liked best about a provider. Was the staff approachable and friendly? Did their child and family look forward to their visit?  The relationship with your therapist is an important component to your child’s success. Getting first hand feedback can be very valuable.

3. Look for a range of Services.

Early Intervention services involve a wide range of services to address a variety of children’s needs.   Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Developmental Services, Social Work, Nutrition, Vision and Hearing Services, are some of the key disciplines to look for in a provider.   They can all make important contributions dependent upon your child and family’s needs.

4. Make a call to a select number of providers.

Give the provider a call and interview them to understand how they approach a new child. Discuss your child’s challenges and ask them how they would proceed to help you.  Ask about their staff’s licenses and length of service. Consider asking for references for parents that you could speak with that have used their services. Often you can get a “feel” from the conversation and judge if there is a good fit for your needs.

Choosing a provider is an important decision, at teli, we work to provide the best possible experience and services to families and their children. Contact us today to learn more: 412-922-8322.

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