An Early Intervention Specialist is a professional who works with families and young children who have, or are at risk for, developmental delays. They provide information, support, and resources to families, and work with other professionals to coordinate services for children.
Early Intervention Specialist job duties include:
- Conduct developmental assessments of infants and toddlers
- Develop Individual Family Service Plans (IFSPs)
- Provide direct therapy and consultation services to families
- Coordinate services with other agencies and providers
- Maintain progress notes and other required documentation
- Attend IFSP meetings and other required meetings
- Participate in on-going professional development activities
- Supervise interns and/or paraprofessionals, as needed
- Perform other duties as assigned
Early Intervention Specialist Job Requirements
An Early Intervention Specialist must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a human service field such as social work, psychology, or special education. In some states, they must also be certified in early intervention. Many specialists have a master's degree. To work with infants and toddlers, experience in child development, early childhood education, or a related field is required.
Early Intervention Specialist Skills
- Patience
- Creativity
- Active listening
- Communication
- Organization
- Observation
- Documentation
- Assessment
- Planning
- Intervention
- Evaluation
- Collaboration
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How to become an Early Intervention Specialist
Early Intervention Specialists work with families who have children with developmental delays or disabilities. They provide information, support, and resources to families to help them better understand and meet their child’s needs.
If you are interested in becoming an Early Intervention Specialist, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or special education. You will also need to complete a state-approved training program. Once you have completed these requirements, you will be eligible to take the certification exam offered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Once you are certified, you will need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education courses. You will also need to renew your certification every five years.
If you are interested in working with families who have children with developmental delays or disabilities, becoming an Early Intervention Specialist may be the right career choice for you!
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