Concerned about your child's development?
Every child develops at their own pace. If you've noticed your child isn't meeting developmental milestones or is struggling with communication, movement, learning or social interactions, it's okay to ask questions.
You know your child best. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. Early support can make a difference, and help is available.
Hear from a parent, child care provider and interventionist about their First Steps experience.
Signs it may be time to seek support
You may be wondering if your child is meeting developmental milestones for their age. Perhaps you've:
- Reviewed milestone checklists
- Talked with your child's pediatrician
- Observed challenges with communication, movement, behavior or social interactions
- Heard concerns from family members, caregivers or teachers
- Noticed differences between your child and other children their age
If you have concerns, don't wait. Early identification and intervention can help children build important skills and access the support they need.
Start with a conversation
Not sure what to do next? Consider talking with the people below. These conversations can help you learn more about your child's development and determine whether seeking an evaluation would be helpful.
Find the right support for your child
If your child is under age 3
If your child is younger than 3 years old, Indiana's First Steps program can provide a developmental evaluation at no cost to your family.
If your child is eligible, you'll work with a service coordinator to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) tailored to your child's needs.
What First Steps Can Help With
Communication & Language
Physical & Motor Skills
Nutrition Skills
Social-Emotional Development
Learning & Problem-Solving Skills
Daily Living Skills
Services are provided in the environments where children naturally learn and grow, including your home or childcare setting. If you choose to have First Steps services in your childcare setting, a few resources from the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Early Childhood Center can help you talk with your provider:
First Steps services are offered on a sliding fee scale and can be billed to insurance and Medicaid.
Find the right support for your child
If your child is age 3 or older
Children age 3 and older may be eligible for special education services through their local public school district.
You can request a free evaluation to determine whether your child qualifies for services and supports.
If eligible, a team that may include educators, specialists, caregivers and family members will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to help your child succeed. Services provided within the public school system are generally free of charge.
Need help understanding the process? IN*SOURCE provides guidance, advocacy and support to help Indiana families navigate special education services.
Additional Family Support
You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Many organizations offer information, guidance, advocacy and family-to-family support. Check out our Developmental Milestones page for a full list of resources for children with developmental delays or disabilities.
You are not alone
Learning that your child may have a developmental delay or disability can feel overwhelming. But you don't have to navigate the journey by yourself.
Remember:
✔ Trust your instincts.
✔ Ask questions.
✔ Seek support early.
✔ Take it one step at a time.
There is a community of professionals, educators, caregivers and family support organizations ready to help you and your child thrive.
Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.
"Hearing that your child may need an evaluation for a suspected developmental delay can be an emotional and overwhelming experience for any family. What makes First Steps special is the way they support families throughout their journey from start to finish."
-Sarah Gmerek, School Leader, Day Early Learning
Find More Developmental Resources
Explore developmental milestones, screening information and family resources to support your child's growth and development.