I Think My Child Needs Assistance

Heartland AEA staff members provide services to children and students from birth to the age of 21. The eligibility requirements for children and students to receive those services differ depending on the age of the child/student. In all cases, however, services are free and are based on eligibility and need. If you believe your child may be in need of services, who you contact at Heartland AEA depends on their age.

Hearing Screening Only

If you are interested in scheduling a hearing screening and do not have concerns about your child’s development at this time, please visit our Schedule a Hearing Screening page to schedule a hearing screening.

Schedule a Hearing Screening

Birth to Age 3

If your child has a condition that may cause later delays in development or if they are showing delays in their ability to play, think, talk or move, your child may be eligible for Early ACCESS services.

You can make a referral in one of two ways: directly to Heartland AEA or through the Iowa Family Support Network.

Heartland AEA     OR    Iowa Family Support Network

Children Who Reside in Des Moines

Please note that if your child resides in the Des Moines Public School district, they would receive services from the district rather than from Heartland AEA. If your child resides in the Des Moines district, contact:

Chris Garrett
(515) 242-8213

Age 3 to Age 5

If you feel your child may have an intellectual, physical, communication, behavioral or emotional disability and needs assistance, click the button below or call the Heartland AEA regional office that serves the school district in which your child resides to make a referral.

Early Childhood Referral Form

Children Who Reside in Des Moines

Please note that if your child resides in the Des Moines Public School district, they would receive services from the district rather than from Heartland AEA. If your child resides in the Des Moines district:

Call (515) 242-8213 or complete the DMPS Intake Form

Age 5 to Age 21

  • The Child Find process is different for students who are of school age.
  • Contact your local school administrator to discuss the concerns you have regarding your child.

I Think My Child Needs Assistance