Early Steps is Here for You and Your Child

Early Steps is a Children's Medical Services program provided by the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville department of pediatrics.

Early Steps empowers families through a comprehensive team of professionals that support you from beginning to end of your child’s time in the program. Early intervention services are provided where your child lives, learns and plays so developmentally appropriate learning opportunities can be incorporated into everyday activities and routines.

Northeastern Early Steps serves families living in Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker and Bradford Counties.

Early Steps has no Income Requirement to Qualify

Services are individualized and based on the needs of your child and family. Most services are provided in your home at no cost to your family.

Early Steps Enrollment

Please visit Florida Early Steps to learn more about the enrollment process.

Once eligibility for the Early Steps program has been determined a child’s family, service coordinator and the clinicians on the eligibility team will design a plan of care that targets developmental concerns based on the family’s priorities. Each plan is individualized, but may include some of the following services and supports:

• Assistive technology
• Audiology services
• Early intervention
• Family support and training
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Service coordination
• SHINE services (Serving Hearing Impaired Newborns Effectively)
• Speech therapy
• Vision services
• Translator services

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Early Intervention Important?

Every child grows at their own pace. Most differences in development are normal, but some may signal a developmental delay. When this happens, early intervention can make a big difference in your child’s ability to learn, communicate, and thrive. Early intervention helps families support their child’s development from an early age. Research shows that positive early experiences lead to better outcomes in health, language, learning, and social-emotional growth.

What Is a Developmental Delay?

A developmental delay occurs when a child isn’t reaching milestones at the expected rate. This could include delays in walking, talking, playing, or learning. Parents are often the first to notice when something doesn’t feel right. Delays can vary in severity. If you’re concerned, don’t wait. The first three years of life are a key window for development. Learn more about developmental milestones on our services and resources page.

What Should I Do If I’m Concerned About My Child’s Development?

If you have questions about your child’s development, we’re here to help. Anyone—including parents—can refer a child to Northeastern Early Steps. Call us at (904) 427-7600 or ask your pediatrician to refer your child. Once a referral is received, your child may receive a developmental screening or evaluation. These assessments compare your child’s skills to other children their age and help determine whether early intervention services are needed.

What Happens If My Child Qualifies for Services?

If your child qualifies, your family will be assigned a Service Coordinator who will help guide you through the process. They assist with decisions about services and connect you with therapists such as speech-language pathologists, physical or occupational therapists, or developmental specialists who will use the Caregiver Coaching Model to provided services where your child lives, learns, and plays—whether at home or in daycare. The focus is on building your child’s skills through everyday routines. Please visit the Early Steps State Website to learn more about how families participate in Early Steps.

Is There a Cost for Early Steps Services?

No. Early Steps services are provided at no cost to families, regardless of income. Services are funded through state and federal programs under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We work with your insurance first, but families are never charged co-pays or deductibles for Early Steps services.

How Does Early Steps Support Families?

Families enrolled in Early Steps have access to Family Resource Specialist, parents of children with special needs who offer support, resources, and encouragement. They also organize playgroups, family events and someone you can contact with any questions you may have about Early Steps.

What Happens When My Child Turns 3?

Early Steps serves children from birth to age 3. As your child approaches their third birthday, your service coordinator will help you plan the next steps. Some families choose preschools, Head Start, or transition to services through the public school system. If your child is already 3 or older, visit FDLRS (Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System) to learn about evaluation and services available through your school district.

Are Telehealth Appointments Available?

Yes! Ask your provider about virtual services. Our team offers secure telehealth appointments, so you can access support from home.