Family Centered Early Supports & Services
Services for young children who have a developmental delay, an established condition, or at substantial risk for a developmental delay.
Family Centered Early Supports and Services (FCESS) is NH’s Early Intervention System. Early Intervention is a nationwide program under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA). FCESS serves children birth up to three who have a developmental delay, an established condition or are at substantial risk for a developmental delay. The goal of FCESS is to support families in helping their children grow and develop, and helping a family achieve their own family goals.
Family Centered Early Supports and Services are provided within a child's home or where a child spends time. In this way, a child and family are better able to participate and become more actively involved in their community.
Family Centered Early Supports and services are provided in all communities throughout NH and are delivered by contractual agreements between Bureau of Developmental Services and designated non-profit and specialized service agencies located throughout the state.
How to Refer to Family Centered Early Supports & Services
Anyone who is concerned about an infant or toddler's development, including a parent, may contact, or make a referral to, FCESS. Use the Program Directory to find the local area agency for the town in which the child resides, and call or email the Intake Coordinator listed with the agency. The Intake Coordinator will want to know:
- Child's name;
- Contact information for the parent/guardian; and
- Whether the parent knows about the referral and your concerns.
- Please review the "Eligibility Categories."