When a parent or caregiver suspects their child may have a disability or delay, figuring out what to do next can be daunting and confusing.  Early Start Family Resource Centers (ESFRCs) are parent-led organizations that can help families navigate the regional center system.  The staff at ESFRCs have first-hand experience working with regional centers to support their loved ones.

There are 47 ESFRCs, serving all 58 counties in California.   While there are several other family resource centers in California, the 47 ESFRCs are unique.  They have specialized knowledge about infants’ and toddlers’ developmental disabilities, and resources the regional centers can provide to assist families.  You can find them by looking up your local Family Resource Center or visiting the Department’s Family Resource Centers webpage to learn more.

Who is it for? 

Families of infants and toddlers (birth to 3-years-old) can receive parent-to-parent support from ESFRCs, whether or not the child is eligible for Early Start services.

How do they work? 

ESFRCs provide one-on-one assistance, coaching, mentoring, and resources so families can get what their children need to grow and thrive.

ESFRCs have contracts with the Department, and work in partnership with regional centers and local education agencies.  They help families get information about early intervention services and how to navigate the Early Start system.

ESFRCs strive to be:

  • a valuable resource to their local communities,
  • respectful and responsive to cultural and linguistic differences,
  • supportive of individual and family decision-making about services and supports.

What can you expect? 

An ESFRC may provide:

  • parent-to-parent family support
  • peer counseling and home visits
  • information and referral
  • public awareness
  • parent education
  • assistance with transition from Early Start at age 3
  • support services in many languages
  • translation assistance
  • support services in urban and rural communities

Are family members involved? 

Family members are always welcome to visit ESFRCs to learn how to better support their loved ones.  Some centers also hold support groups, sibling classes and other events.


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