Wisconsin has multiple programs available for children with delays or disabilities. The programs listed below assist families in caring for their child at home and in the community. Families may be eligible for one or more programs based on their assessed need. For each of the programs below, click on the name to learn more about what the program provides, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
The Birth to 3 Program is for children ages birth to three years old. Eligibility is based on a diagnosed disability or developmental delay in how a child plays, learns, speaks, and acts. The program values the family’s primary relationship with their child and works in partnership with the family.
The Children's Long-Term Support Program provides services for children and young adults under the age of 22 with significant developmental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Supports and services are available to help waiver participants and their families to remain in their home or community.
Katie Beckett Medicaid is for children under 19 years old with long-term disabilities or complex medical needs. Children who are not eligible for other Medicaid programs because their parents' income or assets are too high may be eligible for Medicaid through the Katie Beckett Program.
This video demonstrates the importance of investing in children in need of long-term care services. Governor Tony Evers’ budget proposal guarantees all eligible children with disabilities who have long-term care needs can access care in their communities by eliminating the current Children’s Long-Term Support Waiver Program waitlist, strengthening Wisconsin’s stance as a national leader in our approach to serving the elderly and people with disabilities.
Children's Community Options Program provides a coordinated approach to supporting families who have a child with a disability. The intention is to better support, nurture, and facilitate self-determination, interdependence, and inclusion in all facets of community life for the child and family.
The Care4Kids Program ensures that children in foster care receive individualized treatment plans in order to address their specific health care needs, including trauma-related care. As a result, children in community settings are expected to have improved physical and mental health, improved resiliency, and shorter stays in out-of-home care.
Getting Started: Resources to Understand Children's Services Programs
Children's Services Programs: Cross Comparison: Learn about the key features of Katie Beckett Medicaid, the CLTS Program, and CCOP.
Children's Programs Eligibility and Functional Screen: Understand how eligibility is determined for Katie Beckett Medicaid, the CLTS Program, CCOP, and CCS.
Medicaid and Children's Services Program Benefits Overview: Get information about the benefits of some of DHS' most popular children's services programs.
Helpful Resources for Families in Children's Services Programs: Learn about children's programs and how to stay connected.
Other Resources
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
The CYSHCN program promotes quality care for children and youth with special health care needs in Wisconsin.
Learn about supports and services available for students with disabilities after high school. The sooner the planning begins for life after high school, the smoother the transition.
Community Resources for Families and Children
Find national and state resources for children with disabilities and their families.
