Early On Michigan: A Career Path Supporting Children from Birth to Age Three

Early On Michigan (Early On MI) is the state’s early intervention program for infants and toddlers, birth to age three, who have developmental delays or disabilities, or who are at risk for delays due to specific health conditions. It is a vital part of Michigan’s special education and early childhood services, offering professionals the opportunity to make a direct, lasting impact on a child’s future.

Early On MI services help young children develop in five key areas:

  • Physical development – including motor skills like crawling, walking, and coordination
  • Cognitive development – learning, problem-solving, and memory skills
  • Communication – speaking, understanding language, and using gestures
  • Social-emotional skills – interacting with others, self-regulation, and building relationships
  • Self-help skills – feeding, dressing, and other daily activities

Intervention is delivered in natural environments such as a child’s home, childcare setting, or community location, making it a family-centered approach, delivered by several professionals, including:

  • Early Interventionist – a specialist in early childhood development who works directly with families to create and carry out Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs).

  • Speech-Language Pathologist – supports children with communication delays.

  • Occupational Therapist – helps with fine motor skills, daily routines, and sensory integration.

  • Physical Therapist – focuses on gross motor skills and movement.

  • Social Worker – provides family support, counseling, and connection to resources.

  • Special Educator – designs learning strategies tailored to a child’s needs.

Professionals in Early On MI play a key role in ensuring children get the help they need during their most critical years of brain development. 

  • Meaningful impact – You directly support a child’s growth and a family’s success.
  • Team collaboration – Work with a network of specialists to provide comprehensive care.
  • Career variety – Opportunities exist in schools, intermediate school districts (ISDs), and private agencies.
  • Continued learning – Ongoing professional development and state-supported training.

A great place to learn more about Early Childhood Intervention is to get involved at the local school district or ISDs, while also exploring opportunities at The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) and Early On.

Early On Michigan is beyond a program but a career path for those passionate about supporting children and families during the earliest, most formative years. 

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a special educator looking to specialize, or a healthcare professional seeking a new way to serve, Early On offers a meaningful, in-demand field where your skills will change lives.

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ABOUT OPTIMISE

OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years). 

The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams collaborate with numerous partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and the legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work involves collaboration with all levels of education to achieve this goal.

OPTIMISE promotes twelve professions within Michigan’s special education field, including steps to reach those professions, degree programs in the state, financial assistance through grants/scholarships, industry support, and a real-time job board featuring jobs in Michigan.

Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.

Go to: OPTIMISE.education

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