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Services for Children

Each child is unique. The earlier you refer a child, the better because research shows that starting intervention services early gives a child the best chance to learn and grow. Early support can reduce the need for services later in life so there is absolutely no need to "wait and see." 

Adults looking at baby

The Services We Provide

Children’s Department Early Intervention Services
Birth through three

Early Intervention services support parents and caregivers to enhance a child’s learning and development through everyday learning opportunities. We also assist families in the navigation of a new system of services and resources made available to them.

Each child is unique. The earlier you refer a child, the better because research shows that starting intervention services early gives a child the best chance to learn and grow. Early support can reduce the need for services later in life so there is absolutely no need to "wait and see." 

Service and Support Administration Department
Ages three through Graduation

Service and Support Administration strives to make sure that every child reaches his or her full potential by assisting young children and their families in coordinating various transitions throughout life. With a focus on the child’s strengths, needs and goals, the department:

  • Assists children and families in navigating the school system and school transitions
  • Encourages independence, self-advocacy and community membership
  • Coordinates services with community agencies such as Mental Health, Social Security, Medicaid and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities
  • Guides transition planning, which might include steps after graduation and community employment

Above all, our Services for Children hopes to ensure sure that you understand where your child is developmentally, what resources are available in the community, and where you can turn for assistance or advice.

If you have any questions, please contact the Children’s Department at 419-380-4000. And remember, there is no charge to families in Lucas County for the services we provide.

Child playing at playgroup
Play, learn, and grow.

Early Intervention Services

The Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities provides Early Intervention services and supports that enhance a family’s ability to meet the developmental needs of their infant or toddler.

Click to download our Early Intervention Brochure

Families gain knowledge that will help them build upon their natural strengths during their very important first three years of health and development. It all begins with an Evaluation and Assessment.

Evaluations and Assessments

Evaluations and assessments are used to identify the unique strengths and needs of the child in the following areas:

  • Thinking and learning skills
  • Social and emotional skills
  • Movement skills
  • Talking and understanding
  • Eating, dressing and sleeping

Screenings are completed for:

  • Vision
  • Hearing
  • Nutrition
  • Health and safety Services

Services and support are provided at no cost to your family and are not income-based!

Don't wait, evaluate!

Unsure or concerned? Fill out our Developmental Checklists based on age.

1-3 months 12-24 months
4-7 months 24-36 months
8-12 months36-48 months

Or call 800-755-GROW or visit OhioEarlyIntervention.org.

Other helpful links

What is Early Intervention

CDC Developmental Milestones

Follow Lucas DD Early Intervention Developmental Specialist Angie Ernest-Turpening on TikTok

Science Supporting Early Intervention

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