When my family moved to South Carolina, my son was 18 months old and I knew his speech was not where it needed to be. I started researching what I could do to get help, and somehow I stumbled upon BabyNet.
Looking back, I am beyond thankful I found BabyNet so I wanted to make sure that I shared all about it with all of you! If you have more specific questions, then I suggest reaching out to BabyNet or your pediatrician’s office.
What is BabyNet?
As stated by the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs website about BabyNet:
BabyNet is a developmental program that helps an infant or toddler with special needs move toward his or her full potential. Children who meet eligibility criteria are served regardless of family income. Infants and toddlers from birth to three years may be eligible for BabyNet services if they are developing more slowly in any of the following ways:
- Learning to walk
- Height and weight
- Learning how to think
- Learning to listen and talk
- Getting along with others
- Doing things on their own
Early intervention services may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or assistive technology.
Who Is Eligible for Services With BabyNet?
Any South Carolina baby from birth to age three years old!
Do I Need a Pediatrician Referral?
Nope! If you ever feel like you need or want BabyNet services for your child, then you can self-refer them through this link! This is unique because a lot of other states require your pediatrician to refer you for services.
Does It Cost Anything?
Nope! This is a free service (regardless of income) for residents of South Carolina. For the services that we received, they did bill our insurance first, but whatever was left never came to us!
Where Do I Have to Go?
This is the best part — BabyNet service providers come to you! We had speech therapy once a week in our house. It was truly the best, and helped my son tremendously!
The entire BabyNet process was fantastic for us from the start to when my son turned three/graduated out of its services. Everyone who worked with us was more than happy to answer questions and give us tips/tricks to help when they weren’t around. I truly felt like our SLP loved our son (shoutout Miss Lauren — we love you)!
If you have any developmental concerns whatsoever, I highly encourage you to look into BabyNet. I am forever thankful for the services they provided for my family!
