Early Intervention
Children under age 3 who are not learning, playing, growing, talking or walking like other children their age may be eligible for early intervention services.
In New York, the state Department of Health - or, in New York City, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene - coordinates early intervention services.
Who can receive early intervention?
Children who are eligible for early intervention:
Referring a child to early intervention
New York City
In 2024, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Division of Family and Child Health and the Bureau of Early Intervention (BEI) began using a centralized referral system.
Families and the public may:
- call 311 and ask for early intervention
- complete the New York City Early Intervention Referral Form and fax it to 347-396-8801
Regional Office Contact Information:
New York State
Call the "Growing Up Healthy" Hotline:
1-800-522-5006
Available 24 hours a day
Or contact your municipal Early Intervention Official (EIO) directly for local assistance.
Becoming an early intervention provider
Early intervention services are delivered by qualified professionals who are licensed, certified or registered in their discipline and approved by the Department of Health. Learn more about becoming an early intervention provider in New York State.
Services Provided
Early intervention services can include:
Service Locations
Early intervention services can be provided anywhere in the child's community, including:
- The child's home
- Early childhood programs and centers (including family day care homes)
- Recreational centers, play groups, playgrounds, libraries, or any other natural environment in the community