What is early intervention?
Early intervention provides support and services for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) who have delays or conditions that may affect their growth and development. The goal is to help your child learn and develop new skills during the most critical years of brain development — right from the start.
How do I know if my child might need early intervention?
Every child develops differently, but if your baby or toddler isn’t meeting milestones in speech, movement, play, or social interaction, it’s worth checking in. You can use our Milestones Checklist to get a sense of where your child is — or reach out directly for a free developmental assessment.
Do I need a doctor’s referral to get started?
No. Parents and caregivers can contact us directly. You don’t need a doctor’s referral to request a developmental screening or to start services.
Is there a cost for services?
No. Benchmark Montana Milestones early intervention services are completely free for families — there are no income requirements and no insurance needed.
How soon can services start?
Once we receive a referral from you or a provider, we’ll contact your family within 48 hours. After a free evaluation, eligible children begin services right away.
Where do services take place?
Services happen where your child learns best — at home, in daycare, or in your community. Our team meets families where they are, providing coaching and therapy in comfortable, familiar environments.
What types of services are available?
We offer a range of early childhood support and autism support (Applied Behavior Analysis).
Who provides the services?
Your child’s team may include developmental specialists, speech-language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, and family support specialists— all experienced in helping young children thrive.
How long will my child receive early intervention?
Services typically continue until your child’s third birthday or until they meet developmental goals. Before age 3, we’ll help you plan for the next step, whether that’s preschool special education or community-based support.
What if my child doesn’t qualify for services?
Even if your child doesn’t qualify for early intervention, we’ll connect you to community resources, developmental activities, and other programs that can support continued growth and learning.
What’s the difference between early intervention and ABA therapy?
Early intervention serves children birth through age 3 who have or are at risk for developmental delays.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy supports children ages 1–10 who have been diagnosed with autism. Both programs focus on learning, communication, and social skills, but ABA is a specialized behavioral therapy for children on the autism spectrum.
How do I request a referral?
It’s easy — just complete our online referral form or call us directly. We’ll follow up within 48 hours to start the process.
What areas of Montana do you serve?
Benchmark Montana Milestones currently serves families in North Central and Western Montana including Cascade, Teton, Choteau, Pondera, Hill, Blaine, Liberty, Toole, Glacier, Flathead, Lincoln, Lake, Sanders, Mineral, Missoula, Ravalli, and Granite counties.
I’m a provider — how can I refer a family?
Referring is quick and simple. With the family’s permission, you can complete our online referral form or contact our team directly. We’ll take it from there, keeping you informed along the way.
