Early Start: Occupational Therapy and Sensory Supports

The California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) provides care, resources, and support to Californians with developmental disabilities. These services are provided regardless of the recipient’s age. In fact, the DDS Early Start program is devoted specifically to serving infants and toddlers from the ages of 0-3 who display early developmental disabilities. Among the most important services offered are occupational therapy and sensory supports. In general, these supports help young children begin building a foundation of everyday skills on which they can build throughout their lives.

What Are Occupational Therapy and Sensory Supports?

Early Start occupational therapy focuses on improving a child’s ability to engage in daily activities. This includes developing fine motor skills, such as grasping toys and self-feeding. Therapists also focus on simple coordination important for activities like playing, eating, and crawling.

Sensory supports are often integrated into occupational therapy for children who have difficulties processing sensory input. This can manifest in two key ways. On one hand, some children are overly sensitive to sound, touch, or movement. On the other hand, other children may seek out more stimulation than typical. Either way, Early Start therapists design activities and strategies to help children regulate their sensory experiences. This makes it easier for children to focus, learn, and interact with others.

How to Access Early Start Occupational Therapy and Sensory Supports

To give your child access to these services, begin by contacting your local DDS regional center. From there, you and your child will complete an intake evaluation, after which your regional center will determine if your child is eligible for DDS.

If your child qualifies for DDS services, your child’s care coordinator will work with you to develop your child’s Individualized Family Service Plan (“IFSP”). Your IFSP is essentially the roadmap for your child’s individualized care.

If you want your child to access Early Start occupational therapy and sensory supports, request it in your IFSP. At that point, your child can begin receiving this type of care. By addressing developmental and sensory needs early, occupational therapy helps children establish a foundation of lifelong growth and development.