Early Steps is one of the specialized programs offered by the Florida Department of Health, Children's Medical Services (CMS). Early Steps provides services authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part C, and Chapters 391 and 393, Florida Statutes. It is a family-focused program that serves infants and toddlers birth to age three with a developmental delay or a condition that places them at risk for developmental delay. Fifteen contracted Local Early Steps offices across the state coordinate with community agencies and other contracted providers for the delivery of needed supports and services to eligible children and their families.
Florida's family-centered Early Steps Service Delivery System provides services in places where the child and family live, learn and play during everyday routines and activities, and is based on a team-based PSP approach.
Lesson One explains the concepts of family-centeredness and the provision of services in everyday routines, activities and places (natural environment).
Lesson Two provides an overview of the team-based PSP approach and the concept of coaching in Early Steps.