Central Intake and Referral
Central Intake and Referral serves the single point of entry for the Help Me Grow system of supports, which includes Home Visiting, Early Intervention, the ASQ developmental screening program, Family Connects Ohio, and more. Bright Beginnings is the Northeastern regional partner covering Erie, Huron, Lorain, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties.
In 2018, and again in 2024, Bright Beginnings was selected by the state government of Ohio to be the single point of entry for the Help Me Grow system of supports. As the Central Intake and Referral statewide contractor and Northeastern regional partner. Bright Beginnings connects pregnant individuals, caregivers with new babies, and families with young children with developmental delays and disabilities to the following Help Me Grow programs and services:
ASQ Online Service
The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) is a free developmental screening tool available statewide for families with children birth through age 5. The ASQ tracks a child’s developmental milestones, identifies strengths, and helps parents and caregivers learn whether there are any concerns. Get personalized results and support from a developmental screening specialist.
Early Intervention
Early Intervention supports families of children birth to age 3 who have developmental delays or disabilities so they have the best possible start in life. Professionals help identify a child’s strengths and needs, addressing concerns as early as possible. Services are provided where families live, play, and spend their day. There is no need to “wait and see.” Concerned about a child’s development? Act early!
Family Connects
Family Connects is a free, in-home nurse visit provided within the first few weeks of a newborn’s arrival. Visits are offered to all families who reside in a participating area. The nurse checks up on the baby’s and the family’s health, screens for potential postnatal health complications, answers questions about welcoming a newborn, and connects the family to resources within their community.
Home Visiting
Home Visiting is a family support program for pregnant individuals and caregivers with young children promoting healthy growth and development. Each home visit, tailored to a family’s needs, provides support for a healthy pregnancy; tips to help a child stay safe and learn; and an opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and connect with community resources.
Refer a family for Help Me Grow services
Anyone can refer a family to Help Me Grow. There are several different ways to make a referral:
Outreach to Professionals and Families
Bright Beginnings and its regional partners provide outreach to families and referral sources by attending local events, sharing information about service options, and presenting to professionals on the benefits of Help Me Grow services. To request participation at a local event, marketing materials, and/or a presentation about Early Intervention, Home Visiting, or the Help Me Grow system of supports, email
[email protected].
Community Resource Directories
Bright Beginnings has developed the Help Me Grow Community Resource Directories, detailing services and organizations that provide critical support for families across Ohio.