Early Intervention (preschool) programs are provided for children who are considered as “at risk” having shown a delay in a mental or physical developmental area. Preschool programs are designed to work with each child at the earliest age possible to improve and/or maintain skill/capability areas where a developmental delay is identified.

The Early Intervention services for children considered “at risk” are divided into two separate and distinct program areas. The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare maintains responsibility for the funding and supervision of programs for children from birth to age 3 years old. These programs concentrate on enhancing the physical and mental development of these children. The Pennsylvania Department of Education has responsibility for all “at risk” children from the age of 3 years until school age. Services are provided in the areas of physical, sensory, cognitive language, speech, social-emotional and self-help.

In Berks County the Easter Seal Society of Berks and Schuylkill Counties provides the services to children from birth to 3 years. The Berks County Intermediate Unit’s Preschool Education department operates programs for the older preschoolers.