85% of brain development occurs before children start kindergarten. Neural circuits that create the foundation for learning, behavior and health are most changeable during the first years of life
Approximately 150,000 New York children ages 0 – 5 years are eligible for Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education because of identified developmental delays or disabilities. Services are funded by state and county funds and administered by county governments.
Early Intervention supports not only the child, but also the child’s family and caregivers. Services are most often provided in the home or care setting, allowing family and caregivers to participate and incorporating therapies with a child’s daily environment. 64 – 74% of children who receive Early Intervention make greater than expected growth.
Preschool Special education is provided in child care and pre-kindergarten classrooms. Children whose needs cannot be met by their school district may be enrolled in specialized schools. 77 – 82% of children who receive Preschool Special Education make greater than expected growth.
Children of color are less likely to have developmental delays and disabilities diagnosed at an early age or to have services initiated within the legally required timeframe.
Send the message to Governor Hochul and state legislators that kids with developmental delays and disabilities can't wait any longer to receive the essential, life-changing services they need. Encourage them to invest in New York's children early by including an 11% increase in Early Intervention reimbursement rates in the SFY2024 Executive Budget.
Let's get children and their families the life-changing services they need to thrive because Kids Can't Wait!
Click here to send your letters.
Agencies for Children’s Therapy Services
Adirondack Birth to 3 Alliance
Advocates for Children-NY
Alliance for Quality Education
Catholic Charities Family & Community Services
Citizens Committee for Children
Children’s Defense Fund-NY
Common Ground Health
Docs for Tots
EdTrust-NY
Greece Central School District
Liftoff Western NY
Nazareth College
NYS Association of Counties
NY Zero to Three
NYS Council of Churches
Parents Helping Parents
Pittsford Pediatrics
Rochester Childfirst Network
Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy
Step-by-Step Pediatric Therapy Center
The Children’s Agenda
Westchester Children’s Association
The Children’s Agenda advocates for effective policies and drives evidenced-based solutions for the health, education and success of children. We are especially committed to children who are vulnerable because of poverty, racism, health inequities and trauma.
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