Early Intervention Program
According to the 2011 disability census in India, 7.01% children aged 0-6 years suffer from some disability. In Karnataka, 4.55% of the total population is disabled with over 70% residing in rural areas.
Early intervention became a vertical at APD in 2015. Prior to that (since its inception in 2008), intervention involved baby screening only.
Program Objective
Promote a child’s age-appropriate growth and development and support families during the early critical years. Ensure early detection, intervention, equal opportunities and social inclusion for the children.
APD’s Approach
According to evidence-based research (Harvard Child development and ECTA) principles, learning and development happen in everyday interactions and familiar context. It can be enhanced through necessary support and resources.
APD’s approach is based on explicit principles, best available research and relevant law and regulations. We follow an integrated approach where we work with the parent in the child’s life. We formulate individualized family support plan (IFSP) in consultation with parents, build the capacity and sensitize stakeholders such as ASHA, Anganwadi, doctors, nurses, parents, caregivers, and communities to build a sustainable ecosystem.
APD caters to various needs of a child and provides need-based rehabilitation services that include:
- comprehensive therapy,
- assistive and adaptive devices,
- medical and surgical intervention,
- a reference to a nutrition rehabilitation centre,
- guidance and support to families,
- assistance to access various social security schemes,
- self-advocacy, and
- inclusion into mainstream society.
