EPIC - Engage.Play.Inspire.Connect

EPIC is Funded Through the Central Valley Regional Center

EPIC – formally known as the Infant Family Program – was established in 1979 to provide early intervention services to families with infants & toddlers born with medical and/or developmental needs to ensure every child is able to reach his/ her full potential.

Services are based on the unique needs of each child and family, working one-on-one, in the park, or any other environment where the family and child live, learn and play.

How is EPIC Supporting Families?

Early intervention makes a big difference! Our staff work with parents and caregivers of children ages birth thru age 3 to reduce family stress and enhance child’s healthy development. The child needs to be found eligible for Early Start early intervention services through the Central Valley Regional Center to qualify for enrollment in EPIC. Together, they engage in:

  • Developing a shared understanding of needs and goals
  • Identifying skill-building experiences and activities
  • Supporting and enhancing learning and development
  • Finding social, health and educational resources
  • Preparing child for success in school and later in life
  • Serving as an anchoring resource to the family

EPU toddler walking with parents.

Our Program Staff is Comprised of:

  • Early Childhood Specialists
  • Early Intervention Assistants
  • Parent Coaches

Consultation is available with:

  • Physical Therapist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Speech Therapist

The EPIC Program Provides a Wide Range of Services:

  • Home Visits
  • Community Outings/Community Connections (parks, libraries, local children’s museum, zoo, etc.)
  • Playdates (promote social play with peers)
  • Parenting Education (support parent to parent connections)
  • Access to special projects, such as “Tot Talk” – a short-term language intervention program for toddlers with mild to moderate language delays
  • Transition assistance from Early Intervention to Special Education
  • Occupational therapy consultations, evaluation and therapeutic strategies
  • Physical Therapy consultations, evalutation and therapeutic strategies
  • Speech and Language consultations and therapeutic strategies

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is there a cost?

There is no direct cost to families or children; however, families are required to maintain active and regular participation in the program to ensure children are fully benefiting from EPIC services. Children must be referred by the Central Valley Regional Center, which funds EPU to provide early intervention services.

What will be expected from me and my family to enroll in this program?

As your child’s first and most important teacher, your active participation and parent voice is critical in helping your child learn and develop new skills. During the home visits, at least one of the parents or caregivers is expected to be present during each session with child who is enrolled in the early intervention services. You will learn effective strategies to support and enhance your child’s development. In between home visits, you will continue to practice the new skills during everyday routines and activities. When questions come up, you will share your concerns, needs and interests with your Early Childhood Specialist so that two of you can continue refining the approaches for helping your child learn and develop healthy. Child will graduate once he/she turns 3 years old.

Do you provide services to rural areas?

EPIC primarily serves families throughout the Fresno, Clovis, and Merced communities.

I think my child might qualify. Who do I call?

If you suspect your child might have a delay or disability, please call the Central Valley Regional Center (CVRC) at (559) 276-4300. If you are found eligible you may choose EPIC as the program to receive your early intervention services for your child.  We will be honored to be on that journey with you.

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