Back-to-School season is a time of preparation for students returning to school. It's also an important opportunity for parents to help children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Whether a child is preparing to return to school or take their first steps into a classroom, early support can help families feel ready for the learning journey ahead.
At 211 LA, we help connect families to the resources they need to feel ready, whether that means health support, children’s necessities, or other essential services.
One example is our Early Childhood Education (ECE) program, which supports young children as they navigate early learning, developmental screenings, and other services during a critical stage of growth.
In 2025, the ECE program successfully enrolled 74% of children in Regional Center Services, with 504 referrals to the early education program. From January 2026 to July 2026, the program has made 230 referrals to Early Education programs.
This work reflects an evidence-based approach to developmental screening through our care coordination program. A peer-reviewed study published in Pediatrics found that children connected through 211 LA were more likely to receive developmental services, and the impact was even greater among children with moderate to high developmental needs. The study also found that, compared with usual care, children received these services more quickly, providing a faster, easier option than relying on primary care teams alone.
During the study, it was found that children in the 211 LA intervention groups:
92.7% referred to early care and education vs 59% in usual care.
70.4% enrolled in early care and education vs 48.7% in usual care.and
- 27.7% vs 20.3% enrolled in developmental services
54% vs 37.5% enrollment among children with moderate/high developmental needs
This analysis found that children who received assistance from 211 LA were more likely to access needed supports than those who received usual care.
In Los Angeles County, many families face barriers to accessing preschool, developmental assessments, and related support. Through 211 LA, families can receive guidance, referrals, and follow-ups to help children access early education and intervention.
Our Early Childhood Education program serves children ages 0-5 and their at-risk families. To learn more, parents can dial 2-1-1 and ask about the ECE program.
Families can be referred to the Early Childhood Education program in two ways. Parents may receive a direct referral through the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) if the program is determined to meet their family’s needs, or they can call 2-1-1 for more information about the ECE program and be referred directly.
Our care coordination team will help families with developmental evaluations, behavioral health services, Regional Centers, and school districts. We also help them access early care and education opportunities, including child care, preschool, and partner programs such as Head Start and Early Head Start. Among these partner programs, Head Start and Early Head Start help children succeed in life and beyond school. Head Start primarily serves at-risk children ages 3 to 5, while Early Head Start supports pregnant families and at-risk children from birth to age 3. Both programs are free or low-cost and provide the essential early education and support services that children need.
If you feel your child may benefit from the Early Education Program (ECE) or services and programs such as these, dial 2-1-1 to speak with one of our CRA’s. Our team will then ask questions about your child’s development. If your child meets the program requirements and you decide to move forward, we will support you through the process, follow up, and guide you with the next steps.
We encourage you to check out the back-to-school resources below. These materials are designed to help families guide children through school transitions, as well as parents of young children seeking early support to prepare for that first day of school.
Resources
Health Care/Nutrition
Necessities/Supplies
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF LOS ANGELES (including Antelope Valley, Covina Valley, Whittier)
Parent Support
Child Development
School Readiness
