ECI FAQ …

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is ECI?  Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) consists of programs located all over the state of Texas that help babies and toddlers with disabilites or developmental delays up to age 3 years. 

How would my child qualify for ECI?  Your child possibly would be eligible for ECI services if he/she is under the age of 3 and has a developmental delay, atypical development, or a physical/medical condition.

How much will it cost?  Certain services provided by ECI, such as evaluation, assessment, development of an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), and service coordination, are provided at no cost.  ECI has a Family Cost Share System in place where a monthly cost share is assigned based on a sliding scale fee.  Some families do not pay a cost share if they have a certain income based on number of household members, receive Medicaid, CHIP, Food Stamps, SSI or TANF benefits, there child has an auditory or visual impairment and are eligible for services from ECI  or the public school system, or the child is in foster care.

Who can refer?  (Referral Form) ANYONE can refer a child for ECI services.  Parents, grandparents, other family members, fosterparents, doctors, etc. can refer a child if a delay or disability is suspected. 

What if my child is almost 3? (Other Resources) There are other services provided within the community to assist families of children over the age of 3 with certain needs.