Who can refer to the Early Intervention Program (EIP)/First Steps Program (1st Steps Program)?

Anyone can refer to the EIP/1st Steps Program including the family, social services agencies, physicians, any other professionals, daycare and preschool providers. The family must be aware of the referral and a Request for Service form must be completed. The form can be downloaded and returned, by email, fax or dropped off at the Centre.

What happens once a referral is made?

For referrals to the EIP/1st Steps Program , a Family Support Worker, (FSW) sees all new families who are referred for more than one therapy service. Typically, the FSW meets with parents for an Intake meeting,within one week of receiving the referral. The FSW finds out what the family needs and wants and asks the parents/guardians to sign consents and authorizations in preparation for their Initial Consultations (IC) with the therapists. For children being referred for only one therapy service, a therapist will be in contact with the family within two weeks of receiving the referral to arrange a time for an Initial Consultation (IC).

After the IC there will likely be a waiting period before ongoing services begin. If while waiting the family situation changes, i.e., new contact information/address or health/ability changes an additional consultation may be requested by calling 604-463-0881. In addition, families may be invited to participate in a small group that was recommended at the time of the Initial Consultation.

How are Early Intervention/First Steps services provided?

EIP/1st Steps services are developed individually, based on the unique needs of each child and their family, considering the availability of our resources. We work in collaboration with several community partners and resources, such as Public Health Nurses, Infant Development Consultants, Supported Child Development Consultants, Paediatricians, parks and recreational programs, preschools and daycare programs. Services may be delivered in a variety of ways, including individual therapy, small groups, consultation to parents and caregivers, and parent training and education programs.