Early Intervention (EI) in Massachusetts is a statewide, family-centered, developmental service. Thom Child & Family Services offers the earliest possible intervention and support for children birth to three year old who have developmental difficulties due to identified disabilities or whose development is at risk due to certain birth or environmental circumstances. Thom Early Intervention Programs are located across Massachusetts serving:

• The City of Boston and Brookline through the Boston Metro Program
• The Dedham - Norwood - Walpole area through the Neponset Valley Area Program
• The Haverhill - Newburyport Area through the Pentucket Area Program
• The Greater Lowell Area through the Anne Sullivan Program
• The Marlboro Area through the Marlboro Area Program
• The Greater Springfield Area through Springfield Infant Toddler Services
• The Westfield Area through Westfield Infant Toddler Services
• The Waltham - Watertown Area through Charles River Program
• The Winchester - Woburn Area through Mystic Valley Program
  
  

Thom Regional Consultation Programs serve these regions:

• The Boston Region through Boston Regional Consultation Program
• The West Region through Western Regional Consultation Program

Children up to three years of age and their families may be eligible if the child:

• was born early.
• has a vision or hearing problem.
• has a disability or health condition.
• has been slow to sit up, walk, talk or do things for himself.
• has behavior or attention difficulties.

Children who live in families that are experiencing social or environmental stress that is likely to effect the child's development also may be eligible for Early Intervention services.

Early Intervention is a State and Federally mandated service paid for by the MA Department of Public Health (DPH), Medicaid, MA Health Insurance and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). There are no direct costs to families for the following Early Intervention services:

• Screening
• Service Coordination
• Eligibility Evaluation and Assessments

Participating families are assessed a modest, one time per year fee based on annual family income for all other Early Intervention services. This fee does not apply to families earning less than 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. Family health insurance, Medicaid and/or the MA Department of Public Health will pay all other Early Intervention costs. No family will be denied Early Intervention services based on ability to pay the fee. 

Thom Child & Family Services or your local Early Intervention Program will:

• Talk with you about referral.
• Conduct an initial evaluation to determine if a child is eligible for Early Intervention services.
• Talk with you about service choices and options available for children and families through Early Intervention.

An  Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) will be developed for eligible children which is based on the individual needs of each child and family. EI begins working with the child and family once the plan is completed, within 45 days of referral.

Early Intervention serves children and families within the context of everyday routines, activities and environments which both support the child's individual needs and are meaningful and relevant to the family's life. Sometimes the term "natural environments" is used to describe these everyday places and activities. Places where Early Intervention services are provided include family homes, community play groups, childcare centers, playgrounds and libraries.  Everyday routines might include meal time, playtime, going to the playground and spending time with other children at a playgroup.

To learn more about EI services, contact the Thom Child & Services EI Program nearest you. If there is no Thom program in your area, visit www.massfamilyties.org for a listing of certified EI Programs serving your city or town.

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