What Happens After EarlySteps?
To answer that question, we should first talk about transitioning from EarlySteps to Child Search. The school system picks up therapy services once a child turns 3. A meeting should happen with you, your EarlySteps team, and the Child Search staff while your child is still in EarlySteps. This meeting typically happens about 6 months before your child ages out. Your child will then be evaluated by the Child Search staff not long after the transition meeting. If your child qualifies for services, they will then transition almost seamlessly between receiving services with EarlySteps to receiving services with the school system.
Another step that you should take for your child after EarlySteps is to contact Metropolitan Human Services District (MHSD) for Orleans, Plaquemines, and St. Bernard parish residents or Jefferson Parish Human Services Authority (JPHSA) if you are a Jefferson Parish resident. Ask to speak to someone in Developmental Disabilities and request to get on the wait list for Flexible Family Funds (a $258/month stipend), the waiver registry (which helps with respite care, home modifications, and supplies or equipment for your child), and Individual and Family Support (IFS) services that can assist with financials, such as purchasing school uniforms. It is always a good idea to apply for Social Security Income for your child as well, especially if they have a medical diagnosis.
Please feel free to reach out to us here at Early Childhood at the LSU Human Development Center for any questions or support needed!