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Bureau of Child Development Services, A Bureau of DDARS

The Bureau of Child Development Services (BCDS) leads Indiana’s early intervention program, First Steps.

Young child with Downs Syndrome smiling while playing with a ball.

About the Bureau

BCDS is focused on ensuring families of children with developmental delays and disabilities have resources and support that promote their child’s development. Eligible First Steps families are connected with local networks of education, health and social service professionals, receiving a comprehensive system of training and professional development.

Programs and Resources

We support families and caregivers by helping children learn and grow through everyday activities, fostering  relationship-building with peers and adults, promoting independence and encouraging play and development.

First Steps

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Families

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Providers & Agencies

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Policies & Reports

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First Steps

First Steps Early Intervention Services

First Steps is Indiana’s early intervention program for children birth to age 3 who would benefit from additional support to meet their developmental milestones.  First Steps supports families and caregivers by helping their children learn and grow through their family’s everyday activities. Children learn to build relationships with other children and adults, develop independence, play and grow.

Anyone can refer a child to First Steps. Whether you are a parent, family member, service provider, doctor or someone else in a baby’s or toddler’s life, you have the opportunity to help connect that baby with First Steps.

Additional Resources

Explore these quick links for resources and helpful information.

Illustration of a woman woman teaching a child how to read braille over the shape of the State of Indiana.

Find a Local Office

Looking for support in your area? Use our tool to find a local BCDS office near you. Whether you need assistance with early childhood programs, resources or guidance, our local offices are here to help. Search by your location to connect with the services and experts in your community.

Find a BCDS Office

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