December 31, 2003 Gov. Foster Declares January Early Steps Month

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dec 31, 2003 -

Baton Rouge --- Children born with physical or mental conditions that eventually could lead to a developmental disability need a little extra support during their formative years. Fortunately, the Department of Health and Hospitals’ Early Steps Program is there to offer assistance to these children and their families.  

In recognition of the importance of this program, Gov. Mike Foster has issued a proclamation declaring January “Early Steps Month” for the state of Louisiana.  

“We are honored and pleased to receive recognition for this valuable program,” said LDH Secretary David W. Hood. “We hope that during January, we can raise awareness about the importance of getting early help for children with special needs.” 

The program, run through DHH’s Office of Public Health, helps children birth to age three and their families. Early Steps aims to help children who have conditions that might lead to a disability and also helps children who appear to have cognitive, physical, communication, social, emotional or behavioral developmental delays. 

Early Steps offers special services tailored to each family that help stimulate each child and enhance his or her development. The Early Steps program will run a statewide ad campaign from Dec. 29 through Feb. 4 to let parents and families know about the program and offer them more information. 

For more information on the Early Steps program, please contact the Early Steps office at (504) 599-1072 or visit the program Web site at http://oph.dhh.state.la.us/childrensspecial/earlyinterventionservices/index.html.