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 the criminal justice, housing, school, and child welfare systems, as well as the behavioral health treatment system and the general public.

Infant Toddler Early Intervention

Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention is an entitlement program for infants and toddlers from birth up until their third birthday who have or are at risk for having a developmental delay.

IDS coordinates this program in Philadelphia County and reports to the Pa. Department of Human Services’ Office of Child Development and Early Learning, which provides the funding for this program.

Anyone can make a referral to Early Intervention, and all referred children will receive a will receive a multidisciplinary evaluation. Eligible children will be assigned a service coordinator, and all Early Intervention Services are delivered at no cost to the family.

To make a referral to Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention, email this referral form to  birthto3EI@phila.gov 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
  • the Medical Assistance number (if receiving MA)
  • and the child’s Social Security Number (if known)

Children who are evaluated and determined not eligible for services may be eligible for Regular Developmental Screening if they meet the following criteria:

Children receive Regular Developmental Screenings until age three.

For additional information about Philadelphia Infant Toddler Early Intervention, please email Birthto3EI@phila.gov or call 215-685-4646

Children who are ages 3 to 5 years old that have developmental delays are served in the Preschool Early Intervention Program. In Philadelphia, this program is called Elwyn Early Learning Services. To make a referral to Elwyn ELS, call 215-222-8054.

Last modified: Aug 27, 2024 @ 11:06 am