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While all young children grow and change at their own rate, some children experience delays in their development. Special health conditions may affect children's development, too. Accessing early intervention services as early as possible will ensure the best developmental outcomes for these children.
Minnesota's early intervention system - Help Me Grow - includes two programs for eligible children. Infant and Toddler Intervention are special services and supports for children birth through age two and their families. Preschool Special Education is for children ages three to five years. Eligible children can receive services in their home, child care setting or school. Services are free to children regardless of income or immigrant status.
Early childhood specialists will work with eligible children and families to plan the services and supports they need. These may include:
- Special instruction and other services, such as speech, physical and occupational therapy;
- Ways that a family can support their child's development at home; and
- Connections to community services and programs.
Infant and Toddler Intervention Services (birth - 2 years)
Minnesota's Infant and Toddler Intervention services are provided for children birth through two years of age who may be experiencing delays in their development for several reasons, including special health conditions. These services are designed to meet the unique developmental needs of each child and their family.
Who Is Eligible?
Young children with developmental delays or with certain diagnosed physical or mental condition or disorder with a high probability of resulting in a delay, regardless of whether the child is currently demonstrating a need or delay. Click here for detailed eligibility guidance and to view examples of high probability conditions.
What types of services are available to eligible children?
Services are based on the child and family's needs and priorities. Parents are essential team members in the decision-making process of identifying services for their family. Core services at no cost to the family include service coordination and Early Childhood Special Education and related services (i.e. occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech services). Additional services, which depend on the child and family's specific needs, may include:
- Assistive technology devices and services
- Audiology services
- Family training, counseling, and home visits
- Health services
- Medical services, diagnostic only
- Nursing services
- Nutrition services
- Psychological services
- Transportation and related costs
- Vision services
- Other - this list is not exhaustive
Who Can I Contact For More Information?
- If you have concerns about your child's development, talk to your health care provider, call 1-866-693-4769 or use the online referral form to talk with an early childhood specialist.
- For questions regarding eligibility and diagnosed conditions, contact the MN Department of Health program coordinator at 651-201-3641.
- Visit the MN ParentsKnow web site for additional information on Infant and Toddler Intervention Services.
Preschool Special Education (3-5 years)
Minnesota's Preschool Special Education program provides services based on the needs of preschool children who meet state eligibility criteria for developmental delay or other disability, and who are experiencing challenges in their learning and development. Children may be eligible if they are not able to learn, speak or play like other children who are the same age. Services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Visit the MN ParentsKnow web site for additional information on Preschool Special Education.
