Early Intervention Shortage – By Anonymous

As a mom of three, I have learned that all children grow in their own little ways. As a first-time mom, I tracked every developmental milestone and constantly compared my daughter's growth to what I had read online. It was clear that there was a delay, but I had no idea where to start.

When my daughter was 2, we had her screened, and she became eligible for Early Intervention. The experience was pleasant and within a year she was where she needed to be.

Once my second child began to show signs of delay, I knew I had a support system and what that process looked like. This time, we had three therapists, and it had been a 6-year difference. She was screened, and it became clear that there was a shortage of therapists for the Early Intervention program.

Although they were short on therapists, they all have remained helpful and hopeful in this process. We are 6 months into the process and are becoming adjusted with each therapist. It is very evident that they do their jobs because they love children and want to make an impact, but it's also evident that this program is understaffed.