Some of the Early Start free materials may be downloaded from this webpage.
Early Start Community Infographic
This resource is an illustration of Early Start agencies, within the context of other service systems. QR codes provide links to websites with information about Early Start and other community agencies that provide services to young children and their families throughout California. The poster could be displayed or the flyers laid out in lobbies, waiting areas, examination rooms, or any other areas where families spend time.
It can be ordered through the Early Start Neighborhood website. Digital versions may be downloaded; print versions may be ordered and shipped directly to the requester, free of charge.
Early Start Statutes & Regulations, Tenth Edition, 2015
Updated in 2015, presents federal and state laws governing Early Start including Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Act and the California Early Intervention Services Act.
Central Directory of Early Intervention Resources
Central Directory of Early Intervention Resources
A directory of more than 800 state and local agencies that provide early intervention services in California.
- Online Central Directory of Early Intervention Resources A directory that helps parents, providers, and members of the public find valuable resources for infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities or delays and concerns.
Starting Out Together – An Early Intervention Guide for Families
A question and answer format summarizes the research supporting early intervention for infants and toddlers with a disability. The booklet also provides information on the key points of how the Early Start system works, such as eligibility, referral and the child’s service plan.
It can be ordered by completing the Publications Order Form and emailing it to earlystart@dds.ca.gov.
Available in: English | Spanish | Vietnamese
Parents' Rights: An Early Start Guide for Families
Early Start is governed by both federal and state statutes and regulations. This booklet provides in-depth information to parents and other interested parties about procedural safeguards available to ensure services are provided in a manner appropriate to the child’s needs and the concerns of the family.
- Available in: English | Chinese | Spanish | Vietnamese | Korean
- A two page summary of procedural safeguards – English | Spanish | Vietnamese | Korean
Early Start Referral Guide
This resource presents information about the screening and referral process for the Early Start program, information on warning signs professionals who work with very young children should look for, and links to webpages and online directories with contact information for local Early Start lead agencies and family resource centers.
It can be ordered through the Publications Order Form at Early Start Neighborhood website. Digital versions may be downloaded; print versions may be ordered and shipped directly to the requester, free of charge.
Family Introduction to Early Start Brochure
An easy-to-read overview of the benefits of early intervention during the first three years of a child’s life, this brochure explains the steps to take if you have concerns about your child’s development as well as what services are available if your child is determined eligible for Early Start.
It can be ordered through the Publications Order Form at Early Start Neighborhood website. Digital versions may be downloaded; print versions may be ordered and shipped directly to the requester, free of charge.
- Available in: English | Arabic | Chinese (Simplified) | Chinese (Traditional) | Korean | Russian | Spanish | Tagalog | Vietnamese
Early Start Family Resource Brochure
Parent-to-parent support through Family Resource Centers and Networks is a critical component of Early Start in California. This brochure introduces the statewide network of family resource centers, which are staffed by parents of children with special needs who actively collaborate with local regional centers and local education agencies to help parents and families access early intervention services.
It can be ordered through the Publications Order Form at Early Start Neighborhood website. Digital versions may be downloaded; print versions may be ordered and shipped directly to the requester, free of charge.
- Available in: English | Arabic | Russian | Spanish | Vietnamese
Reasons for Concern
This resource presents information about risk factors, developmental milestones, and links to agencies that provide Early Start information, services, and supports for families of children with or at risk for developmental delays or disabilities.
It can be ordered through the Publications Order Form at Early Start Neighborhood website. Digital versions may be downloaded; print versions may be ordered and shipped directly to the requester, free of charge.
- Available in: English | Arabic | Chinese (Simplified) | Chinese (Traditional) | Hmong | Korean | Russian | Spanish | Tagalog | Vietnamese
Centers for Disease Control Prevention and Learn the Signs. Act Early.
For free additional downloadable resources please go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website and choose from a variety of resources: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/freematerials.html#toolsfortrackingmilestones-2017
Last modified: June 16, 2025