FAQs
For Parents
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I begin the process of obtaining early intervention services for my child (0-3)?
First you must call ChildLink at (215) 731-2110 to register and complete an initial phone screening. You will then receive a call from a Service Coordinator to schedule an initial home visit, where information on the early intervention process is provided to you. Your child will receive an in-home multi-disciplinary evaluation (MDE) by a professional. If your child is found to be eligible, a service plan will be created, and your services will begin within two weeks. This process is free of charge, whether your child is found to be eligible or not.
How do I begin the process of obtaining early intervention services for my child?(0-3) How do I begin the process of obtaining preschool early intervention services for my child?(3-5) How do I know if my child is eligible for services?
Your child is eligible for services if he or she is a resident of Philadelphia and has a 25% delay in any area of development (physical, cognitive, language, socio-emotional, and adaptive).
Can I request a specific agency to provide early intervention services for my child?
Yes, it is your right as a parent to request any agency you prefer. Just mention at the time of your child's initial evaluation that you would like Kids and Family to provide services.
What will Kids and Family Early intervention cost me?
Kids and Family Early intervention Services are 100% free of charge. These services are supported by local and federal funding.
How do I begin the process of obtaining preschool early intervention services for my child?(3-5)
Call Elwyn Early Learning Services (ELS) at 215-222-8054 to refer for Preschool Early Intervention. You will receive a phone call from a Service coordinator to gather preliminary information and to schedule and evaluation. At the time of the scheduled evaluation, a team of multi-disciplinary evaluators will assess all areas of your child’s development to determine if your child is in need of special education services. If the evaluation shows that your child is displaying delays in their development, a Local Education Agency representative (LEA Rep) will be assigned. The Local Education Agency Rep will call you to review the Evaluation Report and schedule an Individualized Education Program meeting within 30 days of the date the Evaluation Report was sent to you. The delivery of Early Intervention services must begin within 14 days of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting,
What is my role in Early Intervention services?
As a parent, you are our best source of information about your child. Parents are expected to attend and engage in scheduled sessions, keep the team up to date on any new information, follow through with suggestions and strategies, and inform the team of any change in address or phone number. We understand that issues arise and sessions must be cancelled from time to time; we just ask that you inform your provider of any cancellation as soon as possible.
My child attends daycare, and can I still receive services?
Yes, services can be provided in daycares or at the home of a caregiver.
Do you service bilingual children?
Yes. We have bilingual therapists and interpreters on staff and would be happy to accommodate your needs as best we can. Contact us as we can create discuss your needs to and match you up with an appropriate therapist.
For Therapists and Educators:
Frequently Asked Questions
I'd like to work with Kids and Family, Inc. How do I begin?
Check out our careers page for current opportunities and information on how to apply.
How does a payment work?
Kids and Family pays its providers via direct deposit in a timely manner. As an independent contractor, you are responsible for taking out your own taxes.
Do I have to go into the office to work when working with Kids and Family?
No. Kids and Family employs experienced supervisors who make site visits and are available for on-site, phone, or email consultation. We hold staff meetings and trainings at various locations throughout the city.
What are the training requirements to provide early intervention services in Philadelphia?
Providers obtain 24 hours of yearly training, with requirements being slightly different for providers in their first year of Philadelphia early intervention.