Early On

What is Early On?

  • A network of services for families of children birth to three who have developmental delays, disabilities, or medical conditions.

  • We are based on a partnership between parents and service providers, helping families find the support they need for their child. The program is established by Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law mandating services to children found eligible for special education.

Wexford-Missaukee Early On Offers:

  • free developmental assessments

  • home visits

  • speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy

Who is Eligible?

  • Any child up to age 3 living within the intermediate school district who has a developmental delay, an established medical condition, or a disability. We determine eligibility through developmental assessment.

Our Mission and Values:

  • Our Early On Mission is to provide interaction that builds upon and provides supports and resources to assist family members and caregivers to enhance children’s learning and development through everyday learning opportunities. 

  • We believe that as the parent or caregiver of your child, you know them best. We take your concerns seriously and tailer our services to address what your priorities are for your child. 

  • Community Partnerships – we work closely with community agencies including doctor’s office, the Health Department, Head Start, Community Mental Health, and Great Parents Great Start.

Should You Be Concerned About Your Child’s Development?

  • Each baby goes through developmental stages. Here are some tips to help you decide if you should ask for help:

  • By 3 Months, does your baby…

    • lift head and chest when lying on stomach?

    • show vigorous body movements?

    • show improved head control?

    • recognize breast or bottle?

    • coo – chuckle?

  • By 6 Months, does your baby…

    • sit with a little help?

    • roll from back to stomach?

    • support weight; bounce activity?

    • babble – more than two sounds?

    • hold one toy and reach for another?

  • By 12 Months, does your baby…

    • pull self to standing – may step with support?

    • pick things up with thumb and one finger?

    • put one toy in another?

    • give toy on request?

    • give affection?

    • follow simple directions accompanied by gestures?

    • say 2 or 3 words?

  • By 24 Months, does your toddler…

    • kick a large ball?

    • turn pages of a book?

    • imitate housework?

    • ask for items by name?

    • use 2 or 3 words together, such as “more juice”?

    • recognize familiar pictures – know if it is upside down?

  • If you think that your child’s growth, learning, or social skills are not the same as those of other children the same age, the sooner you check it out, the better.

How Do I Get Started?

  • Early On is just a phone call away. If you have concerns about a young child’s development, take the first step by calling 231-876-2300 to learn more about the program and to schedule a developmental assessment to see how your child is learning and growing.