Here are a few items we wanted to share with you right away!
Feel free to print and use this as a checklist to get you started.
- DSL New Member Form – Please fill out this form so that Down Syndrome of Louisville can securely save your information and do our best to get you any and all information that you need at this busy time. The required fields are what we need to get you started with First Steps. The rest of the fields are optional however important for us to get the most relevant information to serve you.
- Have you been referred to First Steps? Once you fill out the New Member Form (above). DSL will refer you to First Steps!
- What is First Steps?
- First Steps is a state-funded early intervention system that provides services to children with developmental disabilities from birth to age 3 and their families. First Steps offers comprehensive services through a variety of community agencies and service disciplines and is administered by the Department for Public Health in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
- How to get started:
- Again, DSL will refer you once the New Member Form is completed. However, anyone can refer a child to First Steps services: If you would prefer to self refer here is how:
- Kentucky First Steps:
- Contact your point of entry office. If you are in the following counties: Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble, Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington be sure to request a DI (Developmental Interventionist) from Down Syndrome of Louisville! Our DI’s specialize in the development of those with Down syndrome. We can’t wait for you to meet them!
- Ms. Dawn
- Ms. Jenny
- If you are in another KY county or Southern IN – no problem! There are wonderful First Steps providers throughout the state.
- Contact your point of entry office. If you are in the following counties: Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Trimble, Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington be sure to request a DI (Developmental Interventionist) from Down Syndrome of Louisville! Our DI’s specialize in the development of those with Down syndrome. We can’t wait for you to meet them!
- Other KY Counties:
- Contact your point of entry office.
- Indiana First Steps:
- Click here to get started on with First Steps in Indiana.
- Kentucky First Steps:
- Again, DSL will refer you once the New Member Form is completed. However, anyone can refer a child to First Steps services: If you would prefer to self refer here is how:
- What is First Steps?
- Some services you may need and/or be eligible for:
- Social Security Information– This can help explain SSI for an individual with a disability, and how to start the application process.
- Kentucky waiver services– This table briefly lists the three waivers available in KY for an individual with a disability.
- Michelle P. Waiver information– This Kentucky waiver provides assistance to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to help them live in the community as independently as possible. (There is a long waiting list, so we suggest you get on this as soon as possible)
- Medicaid Application Documentation– Medicaid can help financially support a person with special needs. It is income-based, but we recommend all families to try and receive Medicaid for their child.
- Families with a newborn/young infant with Down syndrome:
- Variations in muscle tone– This is a brief explanation of what “muscle tone” really means.
- Activities for Newborns-Young infants– This is a list of activities to work on with your young infant at home, including different skills of development.
- Healthcare Guidelines (1-12 months)– This is a supportive list for you and your Pediatrician of common things to be aware of.
- Understanding the roles of Special Service Providers- First Steps– This is a list of different providers & therapists that First Steps offers, and explains what they specialize in.
More helpful DSL links/ Groups:
Down Syndrome of Louisville’s Website
DSL Families with Members Age 0-3
Sign up for DSL Family text messages
Sign up for Weekly Family Email Updates
Sign up for Monthly DSL Supporter Emails
(Your Friends & family may be interested in signing up for this as well!)