Life After NICU Graduation

I recall being discharged from the NICU and not having any idea of what was to come regarding Jacob’s development milestones. During Jacob’s stay in the NICU, I remember reading regarding the development delays that preemies are more predisposed to. However, I had placed that in the back burner until Jacob was discharged. Upon discharged, I had made an appointment with the therapy center at South Miami, as it was recommended by the NICU to do so. During my initial evaluation, it was recommended that I just wait and see, and that therapy was not needed at the time because he was too small. However, I listened to my gut feeling and began to research what options were available for early intervention. In doing my research I came across Early Steps. Early steps provides early intervention for infants and toddlers. I reached out to the Early Steps associated with the University of Miami and was given a packet to fill out. Although I did not meet the initial qualifications for Early Steps, Jacob did qualify because of his prematurity. So, we applied, got him evaluated, and began our in-home therapeutic services. This was a blessing because it led me to push for him to commence receiving therapeutic services at an out-patient location. Jacob is now receiving physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and feeding therapy. I am so thankful that we pushed for early intervention because I believe that it has played a significant role in Jacob’s development. Therefore, I highly recommend that you reach out to your local Early Steps and see how you can get started.

View the Early Steps Referral Contact List