Harlan Siegenthaler likes to “go, go, go” any chance he gets.

He quickly scoots across the floor and pulls up on the furniture, looking for the next adventure.

“He’s always on the go,” said his mother, Baillie Siegenthaler. “Now that he is more mobile, he’s having fun exploring more and checking things out.”

Over the last six months, Baillie and her husband Ben and their daughter Evie have been supporting Harlan as he gets closer and closer to walking on his own.

The encouragement and resources provided by the Licking County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ Early Intervention team, have been a big part of his journey, Baillie said. 

“It’s been so nice, the whole team has been so wonderful,” she said “It’s such a great service.”

Provided in Licking County by LCBDD, Early Intervention is a statewide program that supports children, from birth to age 3, with developmental delays or disabilities. Services are provided at no cost to families in their homes, where children learn best.

Baillie and Ben first found out about the program after sharing concerns at Harlan’s 9-month doctor’s appointment. He wasn’t moving around much and wasn’t able to sit up very long.

Their pediatrician encouraged them to connect with EI to support his gross motor development. 

The Siegenthalers met with Service Coordinator Stephanie Wolfe and Developmental Specialist Kyle Huth and set a goal of helping Harlan learn to cruise along the furniture. 

Kyle was able to show them ways to motivate Harlan to gain strength and practice moving, using the toys and furniture at their home, Baillie said. 

Evie loved helping come up with ways she could help Harlan by playing with him, like creating an obstacle course in their house. 

Kyle was also able to provide suggestions when Harlan started eating solid foods and resources to help with his speech.

During his six-month evaluation, the whole team celebrated that Harlan had met his goal and is well on his way to walking independently.

Now that he can get around, Harlan has even more opportunities to play with his sister in their water table or at the splash park. 

Their family loves going to the Columbus Zoo and amusement parks and with his increased strength, he can sit up and ride more kiddie rides.

Not only has it been great to have access to such a knowledgeable team, but their positive attitudes are truly appreciated, Baillie said. They don’t focus on what Harlan can’t do, and instead celebrate all the progress he’s made.

“It’s nice to have that cheerleader and that support,” she said. “It’s meant a lot to me as a Mom.”

For more information about Early Intervention in Licking County, go to https://lcountydd.org/birth-to-3/. To make an EI referral, please call 1-800-755-4769. You can also make a secure online referral at http://bit.ly/ReferToHMG.