Early Intervention Specialist

Company Description

Little Play Leaders provides in-home Early Start services for children ages 0–3 through the San Diego Regional Center. Our approach is play- and routine-based, child-led, and rooted in empowering parents to support their child’s development throughout any part of their day-to-day lives.

Role Description

The Early Intervention Specialist provides developmental support to infants and toddlers with delays or disabilities under the California Early Start Program. This role offers complete scheduling flexibility. Hours are based on incoming referrals, and Educators may choose how many clients to accept, allowing for a caseload that matches their availability and desired workload.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver home- and community-based special instruction for children ages 0–3
• Implement play-based, routine-based, and family-centered strategies aligned with IFSP goals
• Coach parents and caregivers to support their child’s developmental progress in natural environments
• Conduct developmental observations and assist with assessments such as the DAYC-2
• Use assessments to write developmental progress reports for clients (on birthday and half-birthday)
• Collaborate with families, service coordinators, and interdisciplinary team members as appropriate
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation in accordance with Regional Center standards
• Participate in reflective supervision, team meetings, and ongoing professional development
• Follow ethical, evidence-based, and culturally responsive practices consistent with Early Start regulations.

Scheduling & Caseload Flexibility

• Hours are referral-based and may vary depending on incoming clients.
• Specialists choose how many referrals to accept, allowing them to build a caseload that aligns with their preferred schedule.
• This role is ideal for professionals seeking autonomy, flexibility, and control over their work hours.

Qualifications (Per San Diego Regional Center Standards)

Required — ONE of the following:

• Bachelor’s degreein Early Childhood Development, Education, Child Development, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field

OR

• Equivalent professional experiencein early intervention:
• One year of professional early intervention experience = One year of college education
• Four years of full-time early intervention experience = Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree

Additional Expectations:

• Experience working with infants/toddlers (0–3)
• Knowledge of developmental milestones and play-based learning
• Strong communication, observation, and documentation skills
• Reliable transportation for home visits (mileage reimbursed)

Preferred:

• Experience with Early Start or Regional Center systems
• Familiarity with DAYC-2 or similar developmental tools
• Training in Project ImPACT or parent coaching models
• Bilingual

Compensation & Benefits

• $25–$40 per hour, depending on education, experience, and job-related skills, including bilingual abilities
• Mileage reimbursement for all client-related travel
• Flexible, self-directed schedule
• Supportive management with reflective supervision
• Paid ongoing training and opportunities for advancement

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Pay: $25.00 - $40.00 per hour

Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Diego County, CA