Getting Started
Our goal is to make your introduction to Early Support as smooth and informative as possible. Here’s what you can expect as you move forward with Holly Ridge Center as a partner:
The first step is to request an appointment.
Anyone who is concerned about a child’s development may refer a child for developmental screening. To do so, you may call us at 360.373.2536 or click the link below:
WHAT AGE OF CHILDREN ARE EVALUATED?
Early Support Services usually refers to children from birth to three years of age. For Children 3 to 5 years of age, contact your local school district to go through the “Child Find” process. If your child is over 35 months of age, contact your local school district Child Find to inquire about services for children age 3+.
INTAKE
After receiving a request, our intake process begins. The intake process starts with a phone call between the parent or guardian and a Family Resources Coordinator (FRC). The FRC will call (usually within two business days) to set up a time for an intake appointment phone call. If the referring individual is not the parent or guardian, the FRC will contact the parent or guardian directly.
The intake phone call, which usually lasts between 20 and 60 minutes, is a time when the Family Resources Coordinator will describe the Early Intervention Program and process in more detail and listen to any concerns regarding the child’s development. With the parent’s or guardian’s consent, the Family Resources Coordinator will schedule the child’s developmental evaluation.
INDIVIDUAL FAMILY SERVICES PLAN (IFSP)
Every program is designed individually to be the best program to suit the child’s needs and family’s priorities.
INDIVIDUAL FAMILY SERVICES PLAN
The final step before services can begin is to create the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
Your Family Resources Coordinator will organize a meeting with all team members (parents, therapists, educators, and others invited by parents) to collaborate and design the best program for your child. In addition to the evaluation information, your concerns and priorities will help shape the plan, including:
- Family strengths, priorities and resources
- Goals for the child
- A plan for services (location, frequency, etc.)
- Funding sources for each service
Your Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) can be changed at any time based on the child’s needs and your family’s priorities.
SERVICES BEGIN
Our work and fun together begins!
Holly Ridge Center’s team of specialists will provide effective, evidence-based interventions to positively affect your child’s development. We thank you for the privilege of working with your child and family!
CONTINUING FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
Active parent participation is a crucial part to the success of early intervention services. Your engagement and reinforcement at home ensures the best outcome!
To do our best in helping you to help your child, you and your child will be the focus of our sessions together. However, you are the expert on your child and what you do provides the experience and repetition that helps your child grow and develop.