FIRST STEPS PROGRAM

First Steps is a statewide early intervention system that provides services to children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 3 and their families.  First Steps offers comprehensive services through a variety of community agencies and service disciplines.
 
Child eligibility for the program is determined two ways:

• By Developmental Delay - A child may be eligible for services if an evaluation shows that a child is not developing typically in at least one of the following skill areas:  communication, cognition, physical, social and emotional or self-help.
• Established Risk Concern - A child may be eligible if he or she receives a diagnosis of physical or mental condition with high probability of resulting developmental delay such as Down Syndrome.

Services may be provided in the home, at child care centers or child care home. Services also may be provided in community settings such as libraries, grocery stores or parks.

First Steps is available in all Kentucky counties. Services are available to any child and family who meet developmental eligibility criteria, regardless of income.  A family's participation in First Steps services is always voluntary.  Referrals are directed to teams at the district Local Point of Entry offices that help children and families access needed services.  For more information contact your local Point of Entry Office at https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dmch/ecdb/Pages/firststeps.aspx.

Anyone can refer a child for First Steps services by calling (877) 417-8377 or (877) 41STEPS.