Early Intervention, known as EI, is a statewide system that provides coordinated services to parents of eligible children under the age of 3 with developmental delays or disabilities.

EI is grounded in the philosophy that young children learn best from familiar people in familiar settings. Every family served in EI will have a local EI team that consists of a service coordinator, service providers, and their family.

A child's team works with the family in their home or other places they spend time in order to develop a coordinated plan called an Individualized Family Service Plan, or IFSP. The team will work through the plan building upon existing supports and resources while discovering ways to enhance the child’s learning and development.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)

EI-eligible children receive services based on their developmental needs and family’s priorities that are documented on the child’s IFSP. A child who has a confirmed diagnosis of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is automatically eligible for EI in Ohio. More information.

Elevated Blood Lead Levels (BLL)

EI eligible children receive services based on their developmental needs and family’s priorities that are documented on the child’s IFSP. A child who has a confirmed elevated blood lead level (BLL) of five micrograms per deciliter or greater is automatically eligible for EI in Ohio. More information.