Author Disclosure

Gardner have disclosed no financial relationships relevant to this article. This commentary does not contain a discussion of an unapproved/ investigative use of a commercial product/ device. Growing evidence supports the efficacious nature of early intervention (EI) services to children with developmental delays and their families. Pediatricians can play a crucial role in identifying developmental delays and referring families to EI services provided by each state, under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The goals of this article are to educate pediatricians about the benefits of EI services and resources available within their state to help facilitate family involvement in EI. By being involved in the EI process, pediatricians can work as partners with parents and multidisciplinary teams to provide seamless coordinated care to children and their families. Objectives After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Discuss the efficacy of early intervention for children and parents. 2. Identify the current status of early intervention in any given state in the United States. 3. Understand the role pediatricians play in developmental surveillance, screening, and the early intervention system for children from birth to age 3 years