Early Intervention services are special services for children in their early years either with known developmental disabilities or with substantial biomedical or psychosocial risk factors for abnormal development (e.g., prematurity or parental neglect). This discussion describes the varying interdisciplinary components found in such programs, and the importance of participation by parents. The efficacy of these procedures in enhancing development has been defined by research. The pediatric role is described as surveillance, referral, interdisciplinary collaboration, ongoing pediatric care responsive to the needs of the child and family, and advocacy.