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Evaluations

Early Childhood Programs - Evaluations

For children ages birth to 3 years, evaluations are completed in the family's home by experienced, well trained therapists. Standardized testing as well as a play based assessment may be used to determine the child’s level of functioning. If the child is found to have significant developmental delays, the evaluators, parents, and a service coordinator from the county will develop an Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) to address the child’s strengths, needs and goals for therapy.

If you suspect your child may have developmental delays, contact the Department of Health Early Intervention Program in your county.

Preschool

For children between the ages of 3 to 5 years, an evaluation can be initiated by contacting your school district Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). A referral from the Committee on Preschool Special Education will begin the process of a series of evaluations to determine if your child is in need of services. A multidisciplinary evaluation may consist of an assessment of your child’s speech-language skills, motor skills, cognitive skills and a social history. After the required components of the evaluation are completed, detailed reports will be sent to the Committee on Preschool Special Education and a meeting is held to determine the child’s eligibility for services and recommendation for an appropriate level of service.

Funding for evaluations is provided by the New York State Education Department and the state and county’s Department of Health.  For further information contact your local school district and ask to speak to the CPSE chairperson.