Delta Gamma Center for Children with Visual Impairments
Eligibility Criteria
Programs and Services
Early Intervention Admission Form
Individuals With Disabilities Act
Resources for Families
Parents Page
Library Resources

For Parents Only

"The sooner we start, the farther they will go."

New parents often describe bewilderment at the news.

Is my child eligible for services?

If you have an infant or toddler who has been diagnosed with a visual impairment and you are looking for a place to turn for help, click on eligibility criteria for information on eligibility for services at the Delta Gamma Center. If you are not certain whether your child has a visual impairment, you can call your child's ophthalmologist or pediatrician to inquire about eligibility or let us assist you with determining eligibility by contacting:

Debbie Naucke, Executive Director
314/776-1300
danaucke@dgckids.org

How do I get started?

Services to eligible children, birth to thirty six months of age are called early intervention services. A federal law requires that states provide early intervention services to eligible children. That law is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (or IDEA) and services to infants and toddlers is Part C of IDEA.

  1. Request an application for the early intervention program in your state. Complete and return that application. You will be assigned to a service coordinator, who can assist in determining your child's eligibility for the program and in identifying your and your child's needs as well as identifying community resources which can address those needs.

    Illinois Families:
    Child and Family Connections
    Phone Numbers: 1-888-594-8364 or 1/618-624-3399
    Statewide Voice: 1-800-323-GROW
    Child & Family Connections Website

    Missouri Families:
    Missouri First Steps Program
    Phone Numbers: 1-800-583-2392, St. Louis Office: 1-314-993-3400
    First Steps Website

  2. Enroll for services through the Delta Gamma Center. The Center requires each family to complete an admission form and sign a release form to provide the staff with authorization to request a physicians statement indicating that your child has a visual impairment.

    (click here to fill out forms online for early intervention admission forms).
    (click here to print out forms for early intervention admission forms).

    Mail or fax forms to the attention of Debbie Naucke, Executive Director. Fax # is 314-776-7808.

  3. Usually the first service to be provided is the Functional Vision Assessment. When the physician's records have been received, you will be contacted to schedule this assessment. However, you should feel free to contact the office at any time. The staff will be happy to answer any questions and help you through this process.