Birth to 3

What is the Birth to 3 Program?

Birth to 3 is an early intervention program for infants and toddlers who have delayed development or special needs.  Every county in Wisconsin has a Birth to 3 Program.  County Birth to 3 staff work in partnership with parents to identify goals and outcomes for their child and family which will support the child's ability to grow, learn, and communicate. They also provide opportunities for children to participate in peer group activities and connect families to other resources.

Who We Help

The Birth to 3 Program is for children ages birth to 36 months.  A child is found eligible for the program if they show a significant delay in one or more areas of development or if they have certain diagnosed conditions.  A team of child development specialists evaluates a child's ability to:

  • learn (cognitive development)
  • move, see and hear (physical/motor development)
  • communicate and understand other's communication (speech and language development)
  • respond to and relate with others (social and emotional development)
  • eat, dress and care for daily living needs (adaptive development)

How does it work?

Anyone can refer a child to the Birth to 3 program: parents, relatives, friends, educators, doctors.  A Birth to 3 Teacher will then contact the child’s parent to begin evaluating the child's strengths and abilities and determine if the child is eligible for services.  A parent’s observations and knowledge are key in identifying their child's strengths and needs. Our Birth to 3 Team includes Early Childhood Teachers, an Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist and a Speech and Language Therapist.  Other professionals provide consultation if needed.  Team members visit the child to work on reaching goals set by parents and the Birth to 3 Team.  

Meet Our Team!

Natalie Hazen

Teacher/Service Coordinator
I did my student teaching in the Birth to 3 Program in 1994 and have been working here ever since.  I enjoy home visiting and helping people learn about resources in their community.  I am married and have two sons that keep me busy.  

Amanda Hansen

Teacher/Service Coordinator
I started working at the Birth to 3 program in 2005.  Previous to that, I worked for Early Head Start for 5 years. I am certified in Infant Massage. I also have a certification in Infant, Early Childhood and Family Mental Health through Madison. I have a small hobby farm and love the outdoors. I have one daughter. 

Carrie Neidermyer

Administrative Specialist

I started with the Birth to 3 program in 2023. As an Administrative Specialist, I oversee incoming referrals, review documentation, and provide direct service to our teachers/coordinators and therapists. I have worked in various medical office roles and I look forward to supporting my team and the families we work with. In my free time, I enjoy horseback riding, being outdoors, and spending time with family.

Shannon Radle DPT

Physical Therapist
I have been a PT since 2010 and have worked in many settings including the hospital, clinic and in homes.  I love helping families gain skills and knowledge to help their children develop and learn new skills while developing lasting relationships. I grew up in Menomonie, Moved to LaCrosse for college and then moved back to Menomonie and now live south of town. 

Vicky Ebensperger

Speech & Language Therapist
I starting working in the  Birth to Three Program in 1995. I went to school at UW River Falls and have attended many trainings and classes over time to keep current with the field. I enjoy working with children and parents in their homes and community settings.

Ashley Bleskachek

Occupational Therapist
I have been an Occupational therapist since 2011 and have worked in a variety settings  including pediatric, hospital, outpatient, and nursing homes. My favorite setting has been working with families in the birth to three program. I most enjoy working with families in their home environment to help them better understand their child and guide them to meet their goals/needs. I have 2 young girls of my own and am from Eau Claire.