As Early Interventionists, we know we are not doctors.

We know we are not medical professionals.

We know we are not to give medical advice.

I know that.

You know that.

But parents may not know that.

Because they will ask questions. Medical questions we can’t speak on. But we can still help.

We can listen to parents’ questions and concerns, and then we help them learn how to find reliable answers. We teach them the skill of discerning trustworthy resources. It’s not about giving them the answers, but empowering them to find them themselves.

First thing first. Everyone needs a primary care provider.

It is recommended that everyone have a primary medical provider. For kids, that’s usually a pediatrician. Sometimes, the families we work with don’t have a primary medical provider. For instance families without insurance may only see a doctor when they go to the ER or a free community health clinic that has a rotating staff.

That’s where we can step in. We see these families regularly, sometimes weekly, and we can be a compass, pointing them in the right direction to find a stable medical home.

What Is Primary Care Provider?

“A primary care provider is usually an internist, family physician, pediatrician, or non-physician provider (e.g., family nurse practitioner, physician assistant). Research shows that access to primary care is associated with positive health outcomes. Primary care providers offer a usual source of care, early detection and treatment of disease, chronic disease management, and preventive care. Patients with a usual source of care are more likely to receive recommended preventive services such as flu shots, blood pressure screenings, and cancer screenings. However, disparities in access to primary care exist, and many people face barriers that decrease access to services and increase the risk of poor health outcomes.”
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (n.d.). Access to Primary Care. Healthy People 2030. Retrieved from

Again, it is recommended that everyone have a primary medical provider, and for kids, that’s usually a pediatrician. Those pediatricians, as a profession, have come together to form the American Academy of Pediatrics, or the AAP.

What Does the AAP Do?

They publish peer-reviewed journals, release position statements, and create guidelines and recommendations for parents. They even have a website, HealthyChildren.org, that breaks down complex medical info into language parents can easily understand.

As early intervention providers, understanding the standard recommendations pediatricians give parents is super helpful. We can gently reinforce good habits, support parents’ understanding, and avoid contradicting what their doctors are saying. It creates a stronger support system for the family.

How do we use the AAP as a Resource in Early Intervention?

Direct parents to HealthyChildren.org: It’s a fantastic resource with parent-friendly advice on everything from development to health concerns.
Use their position statements and press releases: Available on their website These provide valuable insights into best practices and current research, helping us inform our own work.

We’re not here to give medical advice. We’re here to give parents the tools to seek the best medical advice.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! How have you used the AAP in your work? What other resources do you find helpful? Let’s start a conversation in the comments!