Families can learn new ways to encourage and support their child’s development

First Steps

First Steps (Birth to Age 3)
Early support for children with developmental delays by partnering families with a dedicated Service Coordinator. Together, they identify the child’s needs, develop a personalized care plan, and connect with in-home therapy services. They focus on assisting caregivers to support their child’s development during these vital early years.

Eligibility Requirements

Abilities First has operated the First Steps System Point of Entry in Region 8 (SPOE 8) in South Central Missouri since February 2006 through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Counties in SPOE 8 include: Christian, Dallas, Douglas, Greene, Hickory, Laclede, Ozark, Polk, Taney, Texas, Stone, Webster, and Wright.

Children who are eligible for early intervention services are children between the ages of birth and 36 months that meet the eligibility criteria.

  • Diagnosed physical or mental condition associated with developmental disabilities.

  • Condition with a high probability of resulting in a developmental delay or disability (such as a very low birth weight child who has experienced intracranial bleeding or ventilator dependency).

  • Functioning at half the developmental level expected for a child of equal age in one or more of the following areas: communication, adaptive, physical (including vision and hearing), cognitive or social/emotional.

To make a referral for SPOE 8, call (417) 886-0404 option 1.

For additional information about the Missouri First Steps program or to make a referral statewide, call toll-free 1-866-583-2392 or visit the Missouri First Steps website.

Family Cost Participation/Payments Policy
Program Description & Scope of Services
Make a Referral
Missouri First Steps Program