At a glance
Use these resources to help families navigate the referral process. Use the tips on this page to help support parents in addressing their concerns.
Overview
A family can experience many challenges to following up on referrals and navigating the systems of services for a child with developmental needs. The resources below may help you offer additional support:
- Family Voices— An advocacy group for parents that can help them identify resources and support in their state.
- Center for Parent Information and Resources— A website with information about parent centers that provide information, support, and resources for children with disabilities and their families.
Additionally, families sometimes report that their child's doctor was not responsive to their concerns about the child's development or suggested a "wait-and-see" approach that the family is feeling uneasy about. You can help support families in getting their concerns addressed with a few reminders:
- Acting early on concerns is the best way to help their child.
- They know their child better than anyone.
- They can get a second opinion with another doctor.
- They do not need a referral from the doctor to call early intervention services (younger than age 3) or their local public school (age 3 and older) to find out if their child might be eligible for services to help.
As you know, you are a wonderful support to families:
- Your encouragement and reminders can go a long way toward getting a child and family the help they need.
- Remember, there are many resources in the community to support families in meeting their specific needs. Don't feel like you need to have all the answers!