Children’s Services (EPIC)

Giving Children the Tools they Need to Succeed

The Arc’s Early Prevention and Intervention for Children (EPIC) program assists infants and toddlers with developmental delays and their parents. Service Coordinators assess the unique needs of each child and coordinate therapy programs and community support to help each child reach his/her full potential.

EPIC staff provides services in the child’s natural environment (home, daycare setting, parent’s workplace, etc) and links parents with team members who teach parents the techniques they need to constantly reinforce their child’s development.  Parents are trained in accessing community resources, understanding developmental milestones, parenting skills, and therapy techniques. They are also connected to therapists, early childhood educators, parenting classes, preschool services, playgroups and individual counseling.

To speak with a representative from the EPIC program, contact (757) 896-8464 or email dfennell@arcvap.org.

Quick Facts about the EPIC program

  • The Arc’s EPIC program has been providing early intervention/service coordination services for children in Hampton and Newport News since 1975.
  • The program has expanded significantly through the years and has served as many as 900 children and their families annually.
  • The EPIC program helps minimize the adverse effects of the child’s disability and allows them to develop to their full potential.  Advances in scientific and medical knowledge allow us to identify delays earlier so we can mitigate or prevent the impact of delays on the child.
  • The Arc serves a large number of military families who desperately need support services.  Approximately 45% of children served are from military families who are new to the area.

 

The benefits of early intervention are well-documented.  Through this strategic investment, children with disabilities are prepared to succeed in school, work or community life.  The Arc’s EPIC program works closely with children, parents, educators and other service providers to help each child develop to his or her full potential and lead a productive and fulfilling life.