Program Features & Support

• Inclusive Classrooms – Children with medical needs are integrated into classrooms with their peers.
• On-Site Nursing Care – A Pediatric Registered Nurse provides daily health monitoring and coordinates medical care with teachers, families and service providers.
• Early Intervention & Support – Specialists, including Early Interventionists and therapists, work closely with teachers and a multidisciplinary team to support each child’s development in partnership with the Regional Center and other community partners.
• Family Engagement & Resources – Parents receive coaching and support to help their child thrive at home and in school.
• Individualized Nursing Plans – Each child’s unique developmental needs are addressed in a structured, nurturing environment.

Eligibility Requirements

Medical & Financial Criteria:

• The child must have a medical condition that requires nursing monitoring and supervision.
• The family must demonstrate financial need (assessed on a case-by-case basis) and/or be eligible for local/state subsidies.
• Families must provide a statement of financial need along with supporting letters from social workers, doctors, therapists, or other professionals.

Program Requirements (Family Developmental Center): 

• The child’s medical condition must be manageable within our classroom ratios:
  
  • 1:3 for infants
  • 1:4 for toddlers
  • 1:6 for preschoolers
• The child must be able to integrate into a classroom where space is available.
• The child must be able to attend regularly, with considerations for medical appointments.

Application Process

Step 1: Referral & Evaluation 

• Families are often referred through the Golden Gate Regional Center (GGRC) or other health professionals.
• A team of specialists will review your child’s medical and developmental needs.
• The family will tour FDC (Felton Institute’s Family Developmental Center) with their child to meet the Early Intervention Team, see the site and determine if the program will be a good fit for their child. 

Step 2: Application & Documentation 

• Families complete an application, including medical documentation and financial need verification.
• Families attend a tour and complete full intake paperwork.

Step 3: Program Placement

• If eligible and space is available, we will work with your family to determine the best classroom placement based on your child’s age, abilities, and medical needs.