Early Intervention- Early steps

Early Intervention: First Steps for Parents 🤍 ✨ 1. Accept and act early If you notice delays in speech, attention, eye contact, sitting, or behaviour, don’t wait. Early action gives the brain the best chance to grow. ✨ 2. Get a proper developmental assessment Consult a developmental pediatrician or rehabilitation team. In India, you can also visit centres like National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, CRC’s, DDRC’s, Govt. Medical hospital or All India Institute of Speech and Hearing for structured guidance. ✨ 3. Start therapy based on your child’s need Not every child needs the same therapy. It may include: • Occupational Therapy (sensory, attention, sitting) • Speech Therapy (communication) • Special education (learning readiness) ✨ 4. Work on foundation first Before academics, focus on: ✔️ Sitting tolerance ✔️ Attention ✔️ Body awareness ✔️ Sensory regulation ✔️ Understanding instructions These build speech and learning automatically. ✨ 5. Parent involvement is the key 15–20 minutes of daily home activities gives faster results than therapy alone. ✨ 6. Reduce screen time Screens reduce attention and language. Replace with play, interaction, and outdoor movement. ✨ 7. Create a daily routine Children improve when their day is structured and predictable. ✨ 8. Track progress monthly Small improvements every month lead to big change in 1–2 years. Early intervention is not about fixing your child. It is about giving the brain the right experiences at the right time 🌱 Dr. Ashwini Dahat, Occupational Therapist, Group Therapy specialist and Parent Coach.