Phila.gov
Children’s Services
DBHIDS understands the earlier we provide supports, the faster we are able to provide professional care and evidence-based intervention and assist children to fully participate in their communities.
This requires paying attention to social determinants of health, which include the availability of support, experiences of trauma, access to behavioral health care, educational and economic opportunities, and the social and physical environment.
We do this by partnering with city agencies, including housing, school, child welfare, and criminal justice systems, as well as the behavioral health treatment system and the general public.
Infant Toddler Early Intervention
Infant Toddler Early Intervention is an entitlement for infants and toddlers from birth up until their third birthday who have or are at risk for having a developmental delay.
Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention is part of the IDS division and reports to the Pa. Department of Human Services’ Office of Child Development and Early Learning, which funds this program.
Anyone can make a referral to Early Intervention, and all referred children will receive a multidisciplinary evaluation. Eligible children will be assigned a service coordinator who helps the family participate in Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention and supports access to other community resources. Infant Toddler Early Intervention is provided at no cost to the family.
For additional information about Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention, please email Birthto3EI@phila.gov or call 215-685-4646.
To Make a Referral
To make a referral to Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention, contact via email (birthto3EI@phila.gov), fax (215-685-4638) or call (215-685-4646) with:
- Child’s first and last name.
- Parent’s first and last name.
- Parent’s address and phone number.
- Child’s date of birth.
- Child’s gender.
- Medical Assistance number (if receiving MA).
- Child’s Social Security number (if known).
Referrals for children who are 3 to 5 years old can be made directly to Elwyn Early Learning Services. To make a referral to Elwyn ELS, call 215-222-8054.
Regular Developmental Screening
Children who are evaluated and determined not eligible for services may be eligible for regular developmental screening if they meet the following criteria:
- Birth weight under under 1500 grams or 3.3 pounds.
- Cared for in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
- Elevated blood lead level.
- Referral from the City of Philadelphia Department of Human Services.
- Prenatally exposed to substances including alcohol.
- Experiencing homelessness.
Children receive regular developmental screenings until age three. Please refer these children to Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention using the referral information above in To Make a Referral.