First Steps is Kentucky's statewide early intervention system that provides services to children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 3. Eligibility for the program is determined two ways:
By developmental delay - A child may be eligible for services if an evaluation shows the child is not developing typically in at least one of the measured skill areas: communication, cognition, physical, social and emotional or self-help
OR
By established risk concern - A child may be eligible if he or she is diagnosed with a physical or mental condition likely to result in developmental delay such as Down Syndrome, hearing impairment, or cerebral palsy.
First Steps services are provided in the child's natural environment (home, childcare, playground) and actively involve the parents and caregivers, utilizing a coaching approach to help families support their child's learning and development.
