An early intervention specialist works with a young child who has special needs to provide assistance and support. The requirements for becoming an early intervention specialist vary depending on where the person wants to work. In some jurisdictions, a person must have a bachelor’s degree to begin working in this field, whereas in others, a person may be able to begin with only a high school education and training. Some places even have different job levels for this title, starting with jobs for high school graduates and progressing to positions reserved for those with advanced degrees and years of experience.
Depending on where a person works, the exact job description for an early intervention specialist may differ. However, in general, a person with this title assists infants and toddlers with special needs. The type of assistance this person provides is frequently determined the circumstances. Some children, for example, may require assistance in developing language skills, while others may require assistance in developing motor skills. In some cases, a child’s family also requires assistance, and this specialist may be able to assist the child’s parents in becoming more self-sufficient or coping with the challenges they face.
While the level of education required to become an early intervention specialist varies greatly, a person with a bachelor’s degree stands a good chance of landing this job. Psychology, sociology, and social work are common degree options for those interested in becoming an early intervention specialist. A degree in health, education, or mental health counseling can also be used to prepare for this career. A person who wants to pursue this career can usually find an entry-level position after earning a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s degree or higher may improve his chances of advancement in the future.
To work as an early intervention specialist in some areas, a person may need to be licensed or certified. Though the steps for obtaining licensing or certification differ, they usually include paying a fee and taking an exam. A person may be required to obtain licensing or certification after beginning work in this field in some cases. An employer may, for example, provide training to a new early intervention specialist that leads to licensing or certification. Some certifications, in fact, are only available after a person has gained a certain amount of experience.
After preparing to become an early intervention specialist, a person can begin looking for work. He could look for job openings on the internet or in the classified ads in the newspaper. Many people, on the other hand, find out about job openings contacting their local civil service or government job office.