Sheila Warren, Director

Phone:  (845) 360-6630     Fax:  (845) 291-2418

What is the CHILDFIND/ICHAP Program?

CHILDFIND/ICHAP is part of the Early Intervention Program (EI). It is designed to identify and monitor those children at RISK for developmental delay but who do not qualify for Early Intervention services at this time. An at risk is child is considered to be any child who was born prematurely, has been exposed to environmental lead, has a growth or metabolic disorder, history of maternal alcohol or substance abuse, suspected hearing or vision impairment, illness or trauma, congenital infections, lack of prenatal or well baby care, parental developmental disabilities or mental illness, parenting concerns, family history of child abuse or neglect, homelessness or any concerns about the child’s developmental skills. Our Nurses will work with your family and your health care provider to monitor your child’s skills by using developmental screenings as part of their regular health care follow up from birth through 2 years of age.  We will give you information and suggestions on ways to improve your child’s developmental skills and assist you in locating appropriate community resources. If there are concerns about developmental delays we will assist you in making the appropriate referral to our EI Program. If you have questions or would like to make a referral you may contact our Office of Intervention Services (EI) at (845) 291 – 2333.

What is Early Intervention (EI)?

Young children learn and develop differently. One child may walk earlier than another, while other children may talk first. Often these differences will even out over time. But, some children will need extra help. If you have concerns about your child’s development you can call us with any questions or concerns. Early Intervention can make a difference. You are the most important and knowledgeable person in your child’s life and you know your child better than anyone. It is for these reasons that we enlist your help to work with your child.  If your child does have a delay, the earlier you get help the better. Early Intervention is a voluntary family training program. We will help you to identify the best way to stimulate your child’s development. Referrals can be made directly to EI by parents/family, professionals or physicians. We will assist you to obtain a developmental evaluation and if your child qualifies for services we will help you to design a plan to get your child the help he needs. We provide services such as speech, OT, PT, nutrition, social work and special education, in the least restrictive environment, at no cost to your family. Any child from birth through the age of 2 years with a developmental delay, disability or specific condition may qualify for our services. For information or referrals you may contact us in Orange County at (845) 291 –2333, the New York State EI Information Hotline at 1-800 – 522 – 5006 or http://www.health.state.ny.us

What is Preschool Special Education?

Preschool special education provides specially planned individual or group instructional services or programs for eligible children, from ages 3 – 5 years, who have a disability that affects their learning. These services are funded by local municipalities as well as by state funds.

A referral can be made to your local school districts Committee on Pre-school Special Education (CPSE).

If your child is receiving EI Services and is eligible for Pre-school service your service coordinator will assist you in the referral and evaluation process through your local school districts CPSE office.

If your child did not receive EI services but you have concerns about your child’s development such as talking, moving around, thinking or learning or is facing physical or behavioral challenges you may contact your local school district’s CPSE to request an evaluation.

Your child will be evaluated, at no cost to you, by NYS Dept. of Ed. approved providers. If your child is found to have a disability that may affect his learning, the CPSE will find your child to be an eligible “pre-school student with a disability.” An Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be written to meet your child’s needs. This may include special education, speech, occupational therapy, assistive technology, parent education and training or counseling.

To make a referral contact your local school districts office of Special Education Services.

What is Children with Special Health Care Needs Program?

The Children with Special Health Care needs Program is an information and referral service designed to assist the families of physically challenged or chronically ill children from birth through age 21 years. Our staff will help to coordinate specialty care, provide information about programs and resources appropriate for your child with special needs. We will assist families to locate community based services such as Child Health Plus and Medicaid, Early Intervention, Women, Infants and Children  (WIC), Developmental Disabilities Service Office (DDSO) and other parents supports. For additional information or referral call Orange County Dept of Health office at (845) 568 – 5280.