Why early support matters

• Talking, singing, reading and playing together every day. This is the core of it.
• Small changes to routines that make the day easier for your child.
• When needed, therapy such as speech, occupational or behavioural therapy, with practice at home between sessions.
• Support does not depend on a label. You can begin helping before any diagnosis.

• Appointments and therapy places often have waiting lists. Starting the process early means the wait passes while you are already helping at home.
• An assessment gives information, not a verdict. It tells you where your child needs support and where they are strong.
• Skills build on each other. Help with early communication or play makes later learning easier.

Children make progress at every age. If your child is older, begin now. Earlier simply means more time, not that later is too late.

• Start with your paediatrician or family doctor and ask for a hearing and vision check, since both affect speech and learning.
• Ask at your district hospital whether a District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC) is available. These centres under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram screen children and support early intervention.
• Bring your Nurture report to any appointment. It gives the professional a clear summary.