For over 20 years, Ellisville State School Early Intervention Program has provided services throughout Southeast Mississippi for infants and toddlers ages birth to three years who have, or are at risk for, developmental disabilities. Early intervention is critical in the first years of life to maximize each child full potential.

The Early Intervention Program provides services designed to enhance the child’s early development. The parent is viewed as the primary teacher of the preschool-aged child and intervention services are designed based on input from the child’s team, of which the parent is an important member. An Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed in collaboration with the Department of Healt’s First Steps Program. The IFSP includes outcomes which reflect the family’s priorities and concerns for enhancing their child’s development. The role of the Early Intervention service provider is to facilitate functional skill development during the child’s daily routines and activities. Service provision also includes coaching families and caregivers in ways to promote the child’s learning and development within the context of daily interactions. Early intervention services are provided in natural (home and community) settings.