The Early Years

Birth to Age 5 - Early Intervention

Early Intervention (EI) is a good place to start getting services for your child with Usher syndrome. EI provides services and supports to babies and young children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families. Services may include speech therapy, physical therapy, and other types of services based on the needs of the child and family. Infants whose newborn hearing screening shows that they are hard of hearing or deaf are eligible for these services, which can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills and increase success in school and life. EI services follow a child through their pre-school years, up to age 5.

  • If your child is not meeting the milestones for his or her age, or if you think there could be a problem with the way your child plays, learns, speaks, acts, and moves talk to your child’s doctor and share your concerns. Don’t wait. Acting early can make a real difference!

  • The Center for Parent Information and Resources describes services for preschool children (ages 3 through 5) that are provided free of charge through the public school system. These services are available through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Ages 3 to 5 - Preschool Special Education

Services for preschool children (ages 3 through 5) are provided free of charge through the public school system. These services are available under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). If you have concerns about your child, you can call your local public elementary school, even if your child does not go to school there. Tell them that you have concerns about your child’s development. Ask to have your child evaluated through preschool special education services.