Early Intervention in Philadelphia, Made Easy
If you’re wondering whether your child needs extra support, you’re in the right place.
Early Intervention (EI) is a free, state-funded program that supports babies, toddlers, and preschoolers who may benefit from extra help with communication, movement, play or learning.
If your child qualifies, you can choose Small Talk Therapeutics at no cost.
Let’s walk you through how to get started:
Step 1: Make Your First Call
No referral needed—anyone can call.
Birth–3 years: ChildLink at (215) 685-4646
Ages 3–5: Preschool Early Intervention (Elwyn) at (215) 222-8054
Just say: “I’d like to start the Early Intervention evaluation process.”
They’ll handle the rest.
Step 2: Meet Your Service Coordinator
You’ll be connected with a coordinator who:
learns about your child
answers your questions
schedules your evaluation
This first meeting usually happens right at home.
Step 3: Your Child’s Evaluation
A licensed evaluation team visits your home to gently observe how your child:
plays
moves
communicates
learns
This evaluation is always free, even if your child doesn’t qualify.
Step 4: Review Results + Create Your Plan
If your child qualifies, you and the team will create a tailored plan that includes:
goals for your child
recommended therapies
how often services happen + where they take place
For Birth–3, you’ll receive an IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan), focused on supporting development through everyday routines at home and in your community.
For Ages 3-5, you’ll receive an IEP (Individualized Education Program), which helps your child succeed in early learning environments like preschool.
Step 5: Choose Your Provider
This is where you choose who you want to work with.
If you’d like us on your team, simply say:
“We’d like Small Talk Therapeutics as our provider.”
Your coordinator takes care of everything else.
Step 6: Begin Your Sessions
A therapist from Small Talk meets you at home, childcare or a community space.
Every session is:
play-based
child-led
strength-based
Therapy should feel joyful, natural and stress-reducing. We make sure it does.
Why Families Choose Us
Parents choose Small Talk because our therapists are:
trained in neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed approaches
warm, patient and easy for children to connect with
great communicators who keep families informed
focused on reducing stress, not adding to it
We proudly offer:
Speech Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy
We partner with trusted Philadelphia organizations:
What if we don’t qualify?
You can still work with us. Many families choose private sessions for additional support beyond EI.
Ready to get started?
Whether you’re making your first call or you’re already in process, we’re here to help guide you.