Early Intervention is called different names through out the states. I am talking about the therapy programs set up for special needs children usually divided into under 3 and over 3 but not kindergarten age yet. What does early intervention have to do with homeschooling?
When my children aged out of the early intervention program, the local school system was notified that my child had a special need and needed intervention. In my case the individual that called me was polite, accepted that I had procured a spot in a private speech therapy preschool then let it go.
There are many that are not so fortunate. There are some states, such as Pennsylvania, that once your child is found to have a special needs you fall under more restrictive intrusive laws for school attendance.
This may not be a problem in your state, but do consider what do you want the public school system to know about your child. I am not being secretive or being a conspiracy theorist here.
I am protecting my child’s ability to outgrow early problems. To have a disease such as HIV without multiple strangers knowing. There are many reasons for that and it is your child’s right to privacy. Not to mention that public schools get more student money when there is a known disability so it behooves them to get your child in the door.
Most doctor’s won’t even suggest any one other than early intervention. To find private services or to use anyone other than the government or local public school means you have to do the legwork yourself.
Insurance companies often cover a set number of therapy sessions a year. Once you meet that quota, it’s all out of pocket for you. Most therapy centers will give you a discount if you pay immediately so they won’t have to file insurance claims. It never hurts to ask.
This can sometimes be extended if the pediatrician writes a letter of need to the insurance company. The caveat is the sometimes the insurance company will relent but more often than not, they will say too bad so sad on anything other than applied behavior analysis.
If you work with the therapists, you should always get homework to do therapy at home and possibly reduce the number of your visits. It is also completely possible to do therapy at home with no outside intervention.
If you chose early intervention be aware of who will have access to your child’ records. Be clear about your child’s desired outcomes and don’t be afraid to walk away if you become uncomfortable or the program is not meeting your child’s needs.
If you chose to go private like we did, be aware who will have access to your records. It can be the general practice for your doctor’s office to notify the health department or the local school system, assuming all children are public schooled.
Therapy is a tool used to help our children improve their quality of life. It should never take over the family’s schedule and become all encompassing.
We have used therapy on and off through the years quite successfully. We have taken breaks when the stress of going outweighed the gains.
You are in charge. Use therapy as a tool like any other in your homeschool.