How to Become an Early Interventionist

Becoming an early interventionist involves a combination of education, training, and experience. An early intervention specialist is a professional who works with infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities.

Several years of education and certification may be required to work with children, though this can be an extremely rewarding career for those who are passionate about child development.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you pursue a career in early intervention.

Steps for Becoming an Early Interventionist

Becoming an early interventionist may require several different steps. However, if you have a love and compassion toward young children, you're already part-way there. Start with the steps below to find out the easiest path to take.

1. Find Out Which Major Is Best for You

There are a few popular majors for early interventionists. Many students start with a bachelor's degree focusing on child psychology. You may choose a standard psychology degree with an emphasis on children or childhood special education.

Another popular option is a bachelor's degree in education. Special education teachers play a crucial role in early childhood development and provide informed care to students who need it.

Deciding first on which degree program you prefer will help you next understand the best school options.

2. Find the Right School for Your Major

The next step is to review the schools that have the best programs in the major of your choice. You may choose a school based on several different factors including:

• tuition costs
• campus location
• online course availability
• scholarships and grants
• student resources

3. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree

After you choose your favorite school, the next step is to apply and get accepted. Throughout your undergraduate degree, you will learn the essentials of mental health. Both psychology and early childhood education students will learn how to operate with effective communication skills and identify developmental disabilities early on.

4. Earn an Early Interventionist Certification

Upon graduation, the next step is to earn the necessary licensure depending on your state. Most education programs will prepare you for the certification you will need to pass. States have different credentials that they require, so it's important to review the details before your test day.

The credentialing may take place through the Department of Health and Human Services, who oversee professionals working with at-risk children. The state department will likely test your knowledge of early childhood intervention, as well as your ability to provide speech-language therapy and identify risk factors early on.

5. Gain Experience Working With Children

After you receive your licensure, you can begin applying for positions in a related field. Open positions are usually found online or through local health centers. At this point, you can begin working with children who have special needs or within early intervention environments.

6. Consider an Advanced Degree

After gaining experience for a few years you may consider an advanced degree in either child psychology or childhood special education. A master's degree may give you additional training and may help you level up further in your career. Many social workers and managerial-level professionals are required to obtain an advanced degree first.

What Is an Early Interventionist?

Early childhood intervention is a system of services designed to support infants and young children, typically from birth to age three, who have developmental delays or disabilities.

Responsibilities of an Early Interventionist

The early interventionist plays an essential role in improving the lives of at-risk children. Some early intervention services include:

• early screening and assessment
• evaluation
• plan building
• educating and assisting caregivers
• identifying signs of autism early on
• assisting with speech-language therapy
• assisting with physical therapy

Skills Required of an Early Interventionist

Aside from the necessary educational background and licensure, an effective early interventionist must be compassionate, calm, and supportive. They must build a safe environment for the child to then get the necessary help they need.

Benefits of Being an Early Interventionist

Being an early interventionist is a job in high demand, with many school districts looking to hire an on-staff social worker for help within academic settings. Aside from this, being an early interventionist can be extremely rewarded and valuable for the professional if they love working with children.

FAQs About Early Interventionists

Before beginning a career as an early interventionist, you may have some questions about the degree and the career path toward it. Continue reading for some frequently asked questions and the answers.

Is It Difficult to Be an Early Interventionist?

While this position can be extremely rewarding, it can also be somewhat taxing as the professional needs to demonstrate empathy and understanding even in difficult situations.

How Much Does an Early Interventionist Make Annually?

Early intervention specialists tend to make upwards of $40,000 per year.

What Are the Career Prospects for Early Interventionists?

Early intervention specialists may enjoy a beneficial and rewarding career in this professional field. The position can also open up other options within human services.

What Other Career Paths Are Available for Early Interventionists?

Early interventionists can enjoy rewarding careers in education, and private practices, or may even obtain additional credentialing to move into occupational therapy. If the student chooses to get a master's degree they may also go into social work.