Many special needs show up in the first three years of life. New Directions Early Head Start is committed to serving children with all types of disabilities, including those with severe or significant disabilities. The program reserves a minimum of 10 percent of the funded enrollment spaces for children with disabilities.

When children have special educational or developmental needs, their long-term outcomes are improved when they receive early intervention services. Early Head Start programs partner with local early intervention programs to serve infants and toddlers with disabilities. Early Intervention services and simple changes in routines and environments may help some children significantly improve their skills, knowledge, and overall developmental outcomes.

New Directions Early Head Start works with Delaware’s early intervention provider, Birth to Three Regional Programs, to provide services that meet the needs of children and families. New Directions Early Head Start values parents as an integral part of the education process and encourages parents to serve as advocates for their children’s education. Our staff assists parents in transitioning children into the program and provides ongoing training on special education laws, parents’ rights, and best practices.