Babies Can’t Wait (BCW) is a statewide early intervention program for families with children (under 36 months of age) with specific established or suspected developmental delays. BCW assists families in identifying needed resources and services within our community to meet a child’s developmental needs. Agencies and individuals provide services from both the public and private sectors that may include service coordination, speech, occupational, physical therapy and special instruction. Some services are at no cost to the family, while other services may require a cost participation from the family.
BCW is established by Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) which guarantees all eligible children, regardless of their disability, access to services that will enhance their development. Additional information about IDEA and national efforts supporting the implementation of the early childhood provisions of the law is available through the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center.
BCW utilizes an evaluation team to conduct selected screening tools and specific developmental evaluations to determine program eligibility. Once eligible, a coaching model is used guided by an Individualized Family Service Plan. The evaluation team writes the IFSP with information and input from the primary care physician, family, any relevant therapists and the SC. This includes goals that would include any family goals, developmental goals, personal health care services and the provision of health care that supports the identified developmental needs of the child. Therapists coach caregivers on how to implement strategies during normal routines and activities in the child’s natural environment.
For more information, contact the Cobb and Douglas Babies Can’t Wait Coordinator at (770) 319-4717.
For developmental screening and enrollment call (770) 514-2759.
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