From birth until age 3, children can receive help through early intervention services. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law, requires that every state provide early intervention. You can find out more information on our state’s early intervention services below. You will also find resources regarding child care and other unique learning opportunities in our state.
What is SoonerStart?
SoonerStart is a program designed to help parents, other caregiver’s and children with developmental delays gain the knowledge and confidence they need to be successful in life. Through visits with SoonerStart Early Intervention professionals, the family receives information, support, guidance, and consultation about improving the child and family’s quality of life. It is a program that can be provided in the home, childcare center, the park, or other natural settings in the community.
- It is a collaboration among a child’s parents, caregivers, childcare
providers, SoonerStart Early Intervention professional’s and others. - It is a process that helps the adults in a child’s life learn to help the child
develop. - It has been proven to make a family’s quality of life better and help adults
be more confident in their caregiving abilities. - It is a service provided to the entire family — not just the child!
How do I get my child started in SoonerStart?
To initiate SoonerStart services families must first complete the SoonerStart REFERRAL FORM. Once completed a resource coordinator will reach out to your family to begin the process. Following the intake a screening and/or evaluation will occur to determine eligibility. If your child qualifies for Sooner Start Services an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) will be created.
What happens after my child turns three?
When your child is between 27 and 33 months, the IFSP team will develop a “transition” plan to meet your child’s and family’s needs. Often times this involves reaching out to your local school district and transitioning services to the public schools.
Parents Rights for SoonerStart Services
We always encourage families to understand their rights as a parent. Follow this link to read more about your rights as a parent.
Child Care
Families often ask us for child care recommendations. We understand finding the right place is important for you and your family. Below we have included a list of resources and facilities in our state that can help you find the best fit for your family.
Oklahoma Child Care Resource & Referral Association
Helps Oklahoma families have access to quality care and education for their children through community-based resource and referral services
Learn MoreRainbow Fleet
Since 1972, Rainbow Fleet has been serving children, families, child care professionals and communities in central Oklahoma. We provide innovative child development programs and services that enhance the quality of life for residents in Oklahoma and Cleveland Counties.
Learn MoreiLeap
iLEAP is a half-day program enrolling children ages 2 ½ to 4 years old who exhibit communication delays, with particular classes designed for children who may be exhibiting signs of autism spectrum disorder.
Learn MoreSpecial Care
Special Care serves children, ages 6 weeks through kindergarten, with high-quality early childhood education. Each class is designed to meet the educational, therapeutic, and emotional needs of each child.
Learn More