Imagine this: You’re a pediatrician, daycare provider, or educator, and you’ve just spotted a toddler who seems to be taking their sweet time hitting those developmental milestones. What do you do? Wait it out? Nope! The earlier the better. That’s where Infant Toddler Services of Kansas comes in—a safety net for growing and developing kids. Together, we can build brighter futures by connecting families to free evaluations and services designed to help little ones thrive.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Early intervention isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the superhero cape every child deserves when they’re facing developmental challenges. Research shows that the first three years of life are critical for brain development, making this the prime time to address delays in speech, motor skills, or social-emotional growth. By acting early, we’re not just helping kids catch up—we’re setting them up for lifelong success.
Here’s the kicker: Infant Toddler Services of Kansas offers free evaluations and no-cost services for children under 36 months old. Yes, you read that right—free! So why wait when help is just a referral away?
Signs That a Child May Need Early Intervention
As professionals working closely with children, you’re often the first to notice when something seems “off.” Here are some signs to watch for:
Speech Delays: Not babbling by 12 months or struggling to form simple 2- word phrases by 24 months.
Motor Skills Challenges: Difficulty crawling, walking, or using hands effectively for tasks like grasping toys.
Social-Emotional Concerns: Limited eye contact, lack of interest in interacting with others, or difficulty calming down when upset.
If your gut says something isn’t quite right, trust it! Referring families to Infant Toddler Services of Kansas could make all the difference.
How How to Make an Early Intervention Referral
Making a referral is as easy as pie (and way more rewarding). Here’s how you can help families take that first step toward support:
Start the Conversation: Gently share your observations with parents or caregivers. Use phrases like, “I’ve noticed [specific behavior]. Have you thought about having it checked out?”
Provide Information: Let them know about Infant Toddler Services of Kansas and our free evaluations. Reassure them that seeking help is a proactive step—not a judgment on their parenting.
Make the Referral: Anyone can refer a child! Simply direct families to our website or call us directly to schedule an evaluation. Easy peasy!
Pro Tip: Keep brochures or flyers handy at your office or center as a quick resource for families.
Success Stories: The Power of Collaboration
Let’s talk about Emma—a two-year-old who wasn’t talking yet when her daycare provider referred her family to us. After an evaluation revealed speech and motor delays, Emma began working with our professional therapists through play-based activities tailored just for her needs. Fast forward six months: Emma is now chatting up a storm and running circles around her peers (literally). Her daycare provider didn’t just notice the signs—they changed her life by taking action!
Why Your Role Matters
Whether you’re a pediatrician performing well-child checks, a daycare provider observing daily interactions, or an educator teaching early learners, your role is pivotal in identifying children who may need extra support. By partnering with Infant Toddler Services of Kansas, you’re not just helping kids—you’re empowering families and strengthening communities. Hope starts with a plan, and early help for Kansas kids begins with YOU.
So here’s the deal: If you see something that makes you pause—whether it’s a toddler struggling to speak or an infant who isn’t meeting milestones—don’t wait and see. Act now by referring families to Infant Toddler Services of Kansas. Together, we can discover abilities while embracing differences because every child deserves the chance to thrive.