While all children grow and develop in unique ways, some children experience delays in their development. The term 'Early Intervention' refers to the supports and services available to families with children under the age of three who are not developing as expected, have a medical condition that can delay normal development or are for any other reason experiencing a developmental delay.

Early Intervention supports and services are designed to meet the developmental needs of the child as well as the needs of the family related to enhancing the child's development. Services are intended to build upon the natural learning opportunities available everyday within the daily routines of the family and child.

Services and supports are coordinated by a Family Resources Coordinator (FRC). Your family's FRC will assist in accessing the individualized services and supports that will meet your child's unique needs.

Early intervention services during the first years can make a big difference in a child's life. If you have a concern about your child's development you qualify to meet with a Family Resources Coordinator (FRC) and get a free screening.

You can reach us by phone at 253-798-3790, or by email at pcfrc@co.pierce.wa.us or self-referral through this LINK.

When we talk to you we will ask you:
- about your concerns related to your child;
- if you are interested in proceeding with the free screening

• If you choose to have your child screened:
  - we will collect some basic demographic information;
  - get you connected to a FRC who will come to your home or other community setting comfortable for your family

Family Resources Coordination refers to the activities carried out by a Family Resources Coordinator (FRC) to assist and enable an eligible child and family to receive the services and supports that have been offered and accepted by the family.

• Your family's relationship with your FRC is an important one.
  The FRC will:
  ~ act as your single point of contact
  ~ coordinate services
  ~ listen to your concerns
  ~ build a support team for services
  ~ assure that services are respectful of your family's culture
  ~ respect your family's strengths, values and diversity

Early Intervention supports and services are designed to meet the developmental needs of children with a disability as well as the needs of the family related to enhancing the child's development in one or more of the following areas:

Physical development, including vision and hearing
Cognitive development
Communication development
Social or emotional development
Adaptive development

Early Intervention services may include but are not limited to:
--specialized instruction
--speech therapy
--occupational therapy
--physical therapy

Your FRC will work with your family and service team to develop a plan that address your child and family's individual needs and the services to meet those needs.

Contact Us:
EMAIL: pcfrc@co.pierce.wa.us

Single Point of Entry Line (SPOE): (253) 798-3790
PHONE: (253) 798-6109
FAX: (253) 798-2806
WRITE US:
Pierce County Community Connections
Developmental Disabilities
3602 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98418-7915