First Steps System
Your "first" connection from birth to 36-months of age
What is First Steps?
According to the State's web site, First Steps System is a family-centered, locally-based, coordinated system that provides early intervention services to infants and young children with disabilities or who are developmentally vulnerable.
Most children are referred to First Steps by their doctors, hospital staff, or other social service agency caseworkers; however, self-referrals may be made directly by parents who have concerns about apparent delays in their child's development. A First Steps Intake Coordinator will help you develop a "road map" to help you get the services that will most help your child.
Once a child is determined to be eligible, First Steps allows families to begin early intervention through a base of involved professionals from education, health and social service agencies. Depending on your child's needs, there are sixteen services (you may need to scroll down to find the list of services) available to assist you as you begin to learn how to empower and help your child through the critical early years of his or her life.
"Cluster J" has its office in Columbus, Indiana and serves Bartholomew, Brown, Dearborn, Decatur, Fayette, Franklin, Hancock, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Lawrence, Monroe, Ohio, Ripley, Rush, Shelby, Switzerland and Union counties. You can contact the office toll-free at 1-866-644-2454.
Qualifying Developmental Delays
The state's web site has details that will help you learn more as you begin your journey toward helping your child realize his or her unique hopes and dreams.
