The Early Start program is California's early intervention program for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Early Start services are available statewide and are provided in a coordinated, family-centered system.

Parents know their children better than anyone. The first three years are very important in a child's life. If a parent, family member, caregiver, or professional has a concern about a child's development, it is best to identify the concern as soon as possible.

Families whose infants or toddlers have developmental delay or disabilities, or are at risk for developmental delay or disabilities, may qualify for early intervention services via the Early Start program.

The single point of entry to early intervention services is the regional center in your local area. All infants and toddlers potentially eligible for a regional center program will be evaluated by the regional center to determine eligibility for Early Start.

• For more information on What is Early Start?, click here

• For information on the California Early Intervention Services Act, click here

• Click below to watch the “Take a Minute” campaign video.  These videos are designed to provide information to families and providers about the importance of social and emotional development 

  • View the "Take a Minute" video for parents.
  • View the video in Spanish, "Tomate un Minuto.