Starting Early is DDI’s special program for infants and young
children who demonstrate delay or disability in cognition, motor,
social, language or emotional development. It also offers a
specialized program for young children with autism/PDD, children who
are culturally and linguistically diverse, and children with Down
Syndrome. A transdisciplinary team of professionals conducts the
program. Participation by parents in all phases of the program is
encouraged and support to families is provided. By offering
intensive service early, the program strives to maximize each
child’s potential and reduce the need for more intensive service as
he or she matures.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Starting Early serves
families with children from birth to five years old and operates
twelve
months a year. Families are enrolled in either Early Intervention or
Preschool services at sites in western, central and eastern Suffolk.
Home-based and community-based services are also available.
Starting Early is committed to serving
children in natural environments, and with typical peers, to the
greatest extent possible. Many Early Intervention groups and
Preschool classes combine children with disabilities and typically
developing children to maximize the learning and socialization
opportunities for all children.
STARTING EARLY STAFF
Each Starting Early team consists of staff with training in early
childhood development. Team members include certified special
education teachers and specialists in the area of applied behavior
analysis, psychology, speech/language, physical therapy,
occupational therapy and social work.
STARTING EARLY
CAMPUSES & CONTACTS
Linda Whitaker
Little Plains Campus
25 Little Plains Road
Huntington, NY 11743
Phone: 631.266.4418 Fax: 631.757.4237
Meryl Teitelbaum
Air Park Drive Campus
90 Air Park Drive
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
