When it comes to raising little ones, every parent knows the journey is full of surprises—some delightful, some challenging, and some that leave you Googling at 2 a.m. But what if you’re noticing that your child isn’t meeting milestones like other kids their age? That’s where Infant Toddler Services of Kansas steps in. We’re here to help families navigate developmental delays with free evaluations, personalized plans, and a whole lot of heart. Because in Kansas, we believe in early help for Kansas kids.
What Is Infant Toddler Services of Kansas?
Let’s start with the basics: Infant Toddler Services of Kansas is a statewide program offering no-cost early intervention services for children from birth to 36 months who have developmental delays or disabilities. Our mission? To provide a safety net for growing and developing kids by connecting families with the resources they need to thrive. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, pediatrician, or daycare provider, anyone can make a referral—and yes, it’s completely free.
Step 1: Making a Referral (Spoiler Alert: It’s Super Easy!)
Think making a referral sounds complicated? Think again! Referring a child to Infant Toddler Services of Kansas is as simple as filling out an online form or giving us a call. You don’t need to be an expert—just someone who cares about a child’s well-being. Parents can self-refer, or referrals can come from pediatricians, daycare providers, or even concerned neighbors.
Step 2: Scheduling the Free Evaluation
Once the referral is made, our team will contact the family to schedule a free evaluation at the child's home or a natural environment where they feel safe and comfortable. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill doctor’s appointment. Our evaluations are conducted by two friendly professionals who specialize in early childhood development. They’ll assess areas like motor skills, communication, social-emotional development, and more—all while making sure your little one feels comfortable and supported.
What Happens During a Free Evaluation?
Picture this: Your toddler is playing with toys while our specialists observe their interactions and ask you questions about their daily routines. It’s low-pressure and even fun! The goal is to understand where your child is thriving and where they might need extra support. And don’t worry—there are no bad grades here. Just insights that help us create a personalized plan tailored to your family’s needs.
Step 3: Developing a Personalized Plan
After the evaluation, if your child is determined to be eligible for early intervention services, we’ll work with you to create an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). This plan outlines specific goals for your child and details the services they’ll receive—like speech therapy, physical therapy, or special instruction. The best part? These services are delivered right where your child feels most at home—whether that’s in your living room or at daycare.
Step 4: Ongoing Support for Families
Our support doesn’t stop at the plan. We’ll schedule visits regularly to review the IFSP. We will track progress and adjust services as needed. Plus, we provide coaching for parents so you can feel confident supporting your child’s development during everyday activities like bath time or snack time.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Here’s the thing about developmental delays: The earlier they’re addressed, the better the outcomes. Research shows that early intervention can significantly improve skills like communication and mobility—and even reduce the need for special education later on. That’s why we say the earlier, the better. So don’t wait; if you have concerns about your child’s development, reach out today.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re a parent wondering if your child could benefit from services or a professional ready to make a referral, Infant Toddler Services of Kansas is here for you. Because when it comes to helping kids thrive, Kansas cares.