Getting Started
What is Early Support?
Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT)
Every child grows and learns at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby or toddler’s development, there is help available.
ESIT is a statewide program in Washington that offers free developmental support for children from birth to age three who:
Have a disability or developmental delay, or
Have a medical condition that may put them at risk for a delay.
Early support services are designed to enable children birth to 3 with developmental delays or disabilities to be active and successful during the early childhood years and in the future in a variety of settings—in their homes, in child care, in preschool or school programs, and in their communities.
Early Support Services in Whatcom County
In Whatcom County, three local agencies provide ESIT services:
All three programs offer similar supports, and require a referral to get started.
How to Get Started:
You don’t need a doctor’s referral—parents and caregivers can make a referral themselves! All referrals go through Single Entry Access to Services (SEAS).
Here’s how it works:
Make a referral by phone 360.715.7485 or online at seaswhatcom.org
Connect with a SEAS Navigator who will talk with you about your child’s needs
Choose the right provider—based on your family’s preferences, location, or specific services
Babies Can’t Wait
If you wish to access services for your child or have questions about your child's needs, please get in touch with the SEAS line. They will help you get a referral to Whatcom Center for Early Learning or another relevant agency based on your child's needs.
FAQs
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Single Entry Access Services (SEAS): A Program of Whatcom Taking Action
What is Whatcom Taking Action?
Whatcom Taking Action is a community partnership working to make it easier for families to find and use services that support children and youth with developmental, behavioral, health, and learning needs. Our vision is a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive—no matter their abilities.
Introducing the SEAS Program
The Single Entry Access Services (SEAS) Program is a free, family-centered resource that helps families navigate the complex system of care for children with disabilities or developmental delays.
SEAS was created in 2012 by families, for families, to answer common questions like:
What services are available for my child?
How do I access evaluations, therapies, or support programs?
Who accepts my insurance?
How do I apply for services like DDA or SSI?
Families told us they often felt overwhelmed and alone. SEAS was designed to change that—by offering a single, welcoming place to get answers, share your story, and receive personalized guidance.
Who SEAS Serves
SEAS is here to support:
Children and youth with disabilities or delays (up to age 21)
All children under age 5, regardless of disability status
Expecting families
Families who speak languages other than English
Whether you're just starting your journey or looking for specific services, SEAS is your trusted starting point.
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