Kentucky Early Intervention System (KEIS), formerly known as “First Steps”, is an early intervention program and serves children from birth to age 3 who have a developmental delay or a medical condition known to cause a delay. The KEIS program is family-centered, individualized to meet the identified needs of the child and family and evidence-based to enhance the family and child’s learning and development.
Research shows that the first three years of a child’s life are the most important time for developing and learning. By providing needed services and support during this time, families can better help their children with special needs develop to their full potential and may decrease the need for additional help later in life.
Who May Be Eligible for KEIS Services?
A child may be eligible for KEIS services if they have either:
- Developmental delay – A child may be eligible for services if an evaluation shows the child is not developing typically in at least one of the measured skill areas: communication, cognition, physical, social and emotional or self-help.
- Established risk concern – A child may be eligible if he or she is diagnosed with a physical or mental condition likely to result in developmental delay such as Down Syndrome.
- Informed clinical opinion – A child may be eligible for services if an approved multidisciplinary evaluation team of professionals determines the child is in need of services based on their clinical expertise.
What Services Are Available?
KEIS provides a wide variety of services and supports including:
- Screening, Evaluation and Assessment
- Service Coordination
- Physical Therapy
- Speech & Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Developmental Intervention Therapy
- Assistive Technology
- Transition Services
KEIS services are provided in the child’s natural environment, which includes their home, childcare, and other community settings. Services are grounded in the belief that young children learn best from familiar people in familiar settings. KEIS services are a personalized partnership between the child’s parents/caregivers, to support and help families understand and address their child’s areas of delays.
Services are covered through Medicaid, private insurance, and on a sliding fee scale based on income (this is called Family Share). Those families who meet poverty level criteria may have all costs covered by the Kentucky Early Intervention System.
KEIS Referrals and Contact Information
Participation in KEIS is voluntary. Referrals are directed to teams at the Green River District Point of Entry (POE) office. The POE receives referrals, determines eligibility through evaluations and assessments and coordinates development of individual family service plans.
Anyone can refer a child to KEIS. To make a referral call 270-852-2905 or 270-686-7747. For referrals outside of Daviess County, call toll free at 888-686-1414.
