Early Intervention

Jane CARE for Children is an early intervention provider in McKean County and also provides services in surrounding counties. Physical therapy, Occupational Therapy and special instruction are three services that CARE provides.

Children may receive one or multiple interventions, services are part of a coordinated, multidisciplinary program.

Services are provided as part of the child’s Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) through a family-centered care philosophy. The goal is to support families in promoting their children’s development, learning, and participation in family and community life. Services are provided in the child’s natural setting. If you're unsure about whether your child is meeting age appropriate developmental levels, visit CARE's developmental milestones page.

The Role of Therapists:

Physical therapists focus specifically on motor skills, self-care function, and the utilization of adaptive equipment. Physical therapists use their knowledge and skills specifically related to motor and self-care function, assistive technology, and adaptive equipment.

Occupational therapists help improve children’s motor, cognitive, sensory processing, communication, and play skills. Occupational therapists focus on a child’s ability to perform self-care routines (feeding, dressing), play skills (manipulating objects/toys), oral skills (sucking, swallowing, and chewing) and social skills (playing, following directions)

Occupational therapists assess the need for adaptive equipment, modified techniques, and developmental training in all areas and address sensory processing difficulties.

Special Instructors/Developmentalists evaluate cognitive processes, behavioral concerns and socio-emotional characteristics and interactions. They implement and/or modify environments and choose appropriate play activities to support learning in the framework of the family’s daily routines.

Collaboration

Early Intervention is collaboration by a team which works with the family to integrate interventions into everyday routines, activities, locations and exchanging information. The goal is to enhance development, minimize the potential for developmental delay, and help families to meet the special needs of their infants and toddlers.

How do I receive services for my child?

If you have concerns regarding your child’s development call your pediatrician for a referral or your county provider for a free screening and/or evaluation.

Ages Birth to Three call:

McKean County- 814-887-9287

Cameron/ Elk Counties- 814-772-8111

Potter County- 800-800-2560

Forest/Warren Counties- 814-726-2100

Age 3 to school age call:

814-887-9287