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Infant & Toddler Connection
Since every child develops at a different pace, some need more help to learn.
The first three years of a baby's life are very important. Infants and toddlers are learning to walk, talk, recognize people and do many other things. Since every child develops at a different pace, some need more help to learn. Early intervention means starting to work with children at a very young age. By doing this, a learning environment is created. The children will begin to develop the skills they will need for the rest of their lives!
The Infant & Toddler Connection of the Heartland is the local early intervention system for 7 counties in South Central Virginia. The 7 counties in Planning District 14 are:
- Amelia
- Buckingham
- Charlotte
- Cumberland
- Lunenburg
- Nottoway and
- Prince Edward
Longwood University serves as the local lead agency for implementation of the Part C program for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families who live in PD 14. The Infant & Toddler Connection has coordinated early intervention services in the PD 14 area since 1985 and has been funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, through the Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse Services.
What is an Early Intervention Program?
Early intervention programs work with children with special needs, ages birth through three years. There are many programs throughout your area. Early intervention services include occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, audiological evaluations, nutrition, respite care, assistive technology, special instructor (education) services, and other services. Staff include physical therapists, speech pathologists, nurses and developmental specialists - all specially trained to work with children and their families.
Who Needs Early Intervention Programs?
Most children do things at about the same age. Some children develop at a different pace or in different ways than others. Early intervention programs help children with all kinds of special needs. Some delays may be in only one area such as speech or motor development, while others are more general delays caused by conditions like Down's Syndrome or Cerebral Palsy.
How to Make a Referral
Physicians, parents and/or family members, social workers, and others with whom the child and family have contact may make referrals.
For more information or to refer for an evaluation call 434.395.2967 or toll free at 866.392.8502.