MORE SUPPORT FROM KUTEST KIDS:

Kutest Kids

Free Early Intervention in Philadelphia & surrounding counties · Ages birth – 5 years

Concerned about your little one?

We can help.

Some babies and young children need extra help meeting milestones as they grow. Early Intervention (0-5 years) is FREE therapy, delivered at your home, that makes a real difference. 

Tell us what you’re seeing, we’ll tell you how we can help.

Trusted by 25,000 Families Across
Greater Philadelphia

18 years

of experience

Serving Greater Philadelphia

including Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks, and Chester counties

185 licensed therapists

across multiple specialties

We get it.

Parenting can be stressful.

“WHY ISN’T my child talking yet?”

“OTHER KIDS ARE WALKING, but mine isn’t even crawling”

“MEALTIME IS A NIGHTMARE. They won’t touch most foods.”

“MY PEDIATRICIAN SAID this needs therapy.’’

“MY BABY WON’T LATCH, feeds are torture.’’

“INSTEAD OF ENJOYING my toddler, I’m tearing my hair out.’’

The good news? Early Intervention is available, for free. 

Give your child the strongest possible start during the years that matter most. And you don’t even need a formal diagnosis — just your concern. Because at this young age, a little bit of expert help goes a long way.

What can Early Intervention

help with?

Movement
& Physical Skills (Physical Therapy)

You might notice that your child:

  • Feels “floppy” or not very strong
  • Is taking longer to roll, sit, crawl, or walk
  • Has trouble with balance or coordination
  • Has a hard time moving around or keeping up with other kids
Everyday Skills
& Big Feelings

You might notice that your child:

  • Is overly sensitive to noise, touch, clothing, or movement — or doesn’t notice them much
  • Has big feelings, meltdowns, or trouble calming down
  • Finds it hard to use their hands for play, feeding, or getting dressed
Talking & Understanding

You might notice that your child:

  • Is not yet communicating (no words, pointing, or gestures)
  • Doesn’t seem to understand simple instructions or rules
  • Speaks very unclearly
Eating & Feeding

You might notice that your child:

  • Struggles with breast, bottle, or solid foods
  • Has trouble chewing or swallowing safely
  • Eats only a few foods or avoids certain textures
  • Needs help with weight gain or special feeding plans
Behavior
& Daily Routines

You might notice that your child:

  • Has frequent or intense tantrums
  • Struggles with transitions (bedtime, leaving the house, meals)
  • Displays behavior that feels hard to manage
  • Isn’t quite keeping up with their peers

How it works

Reach out to us

We’ll listen, answer your questions, and walk you through exactly what to do next.

Your child is evaluated

Within a few weeks, a county team meets with you and your child. We’ll help you prepare and know what to expect.

Choose Kutest Kids

Request Kutest Kids and get a dedicated therapist who gets to know your child. No random agency assignments. No starting over each week.

Start seeing progress!

Your caring therapist begins working with your child and gives you the tools to help them, too. 

Child older than 5?
Get our expert therapy services in-network.

“We saw a lot of progress in a short amount of time’’

Our therapist, Callie, was truly exceptional. She was creative, really really attentive, and my daughter Nora took to her right away.

We saw a lot of progress in a short amount of time, so thank you again for setting us up with such a wonderful provider!”

Nora’s Mom

Early Intervention is a team:
 parent, therapist, and child

Our goal? To help you outgrow our services. Your therapist works with you and your child, giving you simple, powerful ways to help your child make progress during everyday routines such as eating, playing or going to the park. Therapy is typically one hour a week, but the skills you’ll gain will help you reach many ‘You did it!’ moments in between visits.

We’re here for your whole family, not just your child.

Beyond therapy, Kutest Kids offers a range of support for the families we work with:
Kids at Play Playground

Our unique indoor sensory playground in Roxborough is open to all families. For many of our Early Intervention families, it becomes a weekly highlight — a place where your child can play freely, and you can breathe.

Social Work Support

Sometimes life throws more at you than therapy can address. Our social workers can connect you with housing resources, financial support, help navigating a new diagnosis, and local community services.

Kids at Play Foundation

Free essentials for families who need them: diapers, new and gently used clothing, toys, and more. No questions asked, no judgment, ever.

Parents as Teachers

Free home visits and parenting coaching for families in Philadelphia and Montgomery County. Practical support, real guidance, and someone in your corner.

When we say we’re here to make your life easier, we mean it.

No hassle

Early Intervention is delivered in your home, daycare, or local community space.  If you choose, your child can enjoy their Early Intervention at our Kids at Play playground in Roxborough.

Less waiting

Our huge network of 185 licensed therapists mean you get a specialized provider for whatever you need, faster

No unanswered calls

We’re there when you need us, and we remember you, every time you call.

Tell us what you’re seeing, we’ll tell you how we can help.

FAQs

Getting Started

How do I get started with Early Intervention?

We’ll guide you through the process step by step. Reach out to Kutest Kids and we’ll explain exactly what to do. Usually, the next step is contacting your county to request an evaluation.

Who do I contact first—the county or Kutest Kids?

The county is responsible for the official evaluation and approval. Kutest Kids helps you understand the process and, once approved, you can choose us as your provider so we can begin services. Contact Kutest Kids to get guidance on the entire process.

What happens during the first phone call or intake?

We’ll ask a few simple questions about your child’s development, explain the next steps clearly, and help you understand what support may be available. There is no pressure, just guidance.

How quickly can my child be evaluated?

Once you contact the county, evaluations typically happen within a few weeks. After approval, select Kutest Kids to begin services in as little as 48 hours.
Eligibility & Diagnosis

Do I need a diagnosis first?

No. You do not need a diagnosis to start Early Intervention. If you, your pediatrician, or your child’s daycare has concerns, that is enough to begin the evaluation process.

What age does my child need to be to qualify?

Children from birth up to age 5 qualify for Early Intervention.

What if my child doesn’t qualify?

If your child is not eligible, we’ll still help you understand what other options may support their development. We offer a wide range of insurance-based therapy: Speech, OT, PT, and Mental health, as well as ABA therapy for autism.
It’s also important to note that if a child did not qualify and concerns persist a few months later, it’s worth requesting a second county evaluation — eligibility criteria change with age, and the child may qualify this time.
Therapy Experience

What does a session look like?

Therapy happens through play and daily routines. You are involved the whole time, and the therapist shows you simple strategies you can use in real life with your child.

Where does therapy take place?

Usually in your home, your child’s daycare, or in community settings. You can also choose to receive services at our indoor Kids at Play sensory playground in Roxborough.

How often are sessions?

Typically, sessions are about 1 hour per week.
The exact frequency can vary based on your child’s needs, eligibility, and what works best for your family.

How long does the whole process take?

It takes a few weeks for you to get your county evaluation, but after approval, if you select Kutest Kids, you will hear from our therapist within 24-48. You can then begin services immediately.

Will therapy feel stressful for my child?

No, therapy is designed to feel natural and play-based. The goal is to build skills through everyday activities in a way that feels comfortable, and fun, for your child.

What if my child doesn’t cooperate during sessions?

That’s very normal, especially at the beginning. Our therapists are trained to adapt and meet your child where they are so sessions feel safe, enjoyable, engaging.
Cost & Insurance

Is Early Intervention really free?

Yes. Early Intervention is a state and federally funded program and is completely free for families who qualify.

Do I need insurance or proof of income?

No. You do not need insurance or income documentation for Early Intervention services.

Will I get any bills later?

No, there are no bills for Early Intervention services when your child qualifies through the county.

Why is this free?

Early Intervention is a state and federally funded program to allow every child the best possible start. Some babies and children need extra help as they grow, and studies have proven again and again that neural circuits (which create the foundation for learning, behavior and health) are most flexible or “plastic” during the first few years of life. Over time, they become increasingly difficult to change.
Therapists & Care

Will my therapist be culturally sensitive?

Yes. We want our families to feel seen, heard, and respected. Cultural sensitivity is a core part of how we deliver care. Our therapists are trained to understand and respect different backgrounds, experiences, and family dynamics. We take your concerns seriously and work to build real relationships based on trust, understanding, and respect.

Does the same therapist come every week?

Yes. Unlike other agencies that promise no waitlists — and end up rotating therapists based on availability — we prioritize consistency. Your child will work with the same therapist each week, building a real relationship over time. You’ll have someone who truly gets to know your child and your family.

What if I don’t like my therapist?

That’s okay, you’re not stuck.
It’s important that you feel comfortable and supported. If something doesn’t feel like the right fit, we’ll work with you to make a change and find someone who feels better for your family.

Can I request a specific therapist?

Yes, you can. As long as that therapist has availability, we are happy to accommodate specific requests. The County will only put the name of the requested agency (i.e. Kutest Kids) into their system, but if you let us know which therapist you request, we can assign them to you.
Parent Involvement

Do I need to be involved during sessions?

Yes, parent involvement is a key part of Early Intervention. You’ll learn strategies during sessions that you can use throughout daily routines.

What if I work during the day?

We work with families to find flexible scheduling options wherever possible, including daycare-based services when appropriate.

Will you show me what to do with my child?

Yes. A big part of therapy is coaching you so you feel confident supporting your child outside of sessions.

What if I feel overwhelmed as a parent?

That’s very common. Our role is to support you as well, not just your child. We guide you step by step so you never feel like you’re doing this alone. You can also access resources for managing it all at www.kutestkids.com/pat,
Development Concerns

What if my child is “borderline” or just a little behind?

Even small concerns are worth looking into early. The evaluation and intervention are totally free and help clarify whether support is needed or not, so you’re not left guessing.

My kid is so young, what’s the rush?

You’re not overreacting by asking questions early.
The earlier you get support, the more impact it can have. Even small changes now can make a big difference over time. And if you’re told everything is fine, you’ll have peace of mind.

Won’t the problem go away on its own?

Sometimes children do catch up, but it’s hard to know without support. Early guidance helps you make informed decisions instead of waiting and wondering.

Is it normal if my child isn’t talking yet?

Every child develops differently, but speech delays are one of the most common reasons families seek Early Intervention. It’s always worth checking early.

I’m always comparing my kid to others, wondering if everything is normal. Is that a reason to seek help?

Yes—this is a really common feeling for parents, and a completely valid reason to reach out.
Many parents don’t have one clear concern—they just notice their child seems a little different compared to other kids, and it starts to weigh on them. That feeling usually comes from paying close attention, not from “overthinking.”
You don’t need to be certain something is wrong to ask for help. Early Intervention is simply there to give you clarity, support, and peace of mind about what your child needs.

I feel nervous or embarrassed asking for help, what should I do?

You’re not alone in feeling that way. Many families come to us unsure or overwhelmed. We take concerns seriously from the very first conversation and focus on supporting, not judging.
Autism & Specialized Support

I suspect my child has autism. Does Early Intervention help with that?

Early Intervention can support developmental needs related to autism in the early years. However, many children with autism benefit from more specialized support such as ABA therapy. Kutest Kids offers expert ABA services, and we help guide families through understanding and accessing the right level of care.
We also provide a wide range of therapy services for all ages, so as your child grows, transitions in care are seamless and fully supported.

What is the difference between Early Intervention and ABA?

Early Intervention focuses on early developmental skills and parent coaching for young children. ABA therapy is a more structured, specialized approach used for children with autism to build communication, behavior, and learning skills in a targeted way.
After Early Intervention

What happens after my child turns five?

Early Intervention ends at age five, but support doesn’t have to stop. If your child still needs services, we’ll guide you through the next steps and help transition into the right therapy options so care continues without disruption.

How do I know my child is in good hands?

We focus on consistency, relationships, and long-term support, not quick fixes. Families stay with us because they feel understood, supported, and guided throughout their journey.