Mothers’ Experiences in Accessing Early Intervention Services for Children with Developmental Disabilities

Children with developmental disabilities (DD) require early and coordinated services, yet parents often face obstacles in accessing adequate support. This study examined parents’ experiences with early intervention in Serbia to identify barriers, supports, and context-specific challenges. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 parents of children aged ≤ 6 years. Interviews (30–50 min) were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed in line with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies. Seven themes emerged: recognition of concerns, first steps in seeking help, complexity of procedures, information gaps, emotional and practical challenges, collaboration with professionals, and recommendations for improvement. Parents typically noticed developmental delays, especially in language and motor skills, by age two but encountered lengthy and fragmented referral pathways, long waiting lists, and insufficient guidance. Parents emphasized the value of empathetic professionals and peer networks while also reporting stigma and social isolation. This study contributes new evidence on how structural barriers and cultural attitudes in Serbia shape families’ access to early intervention. Findings highlight the need for streamlined referral systems, transparent and accessible information for families, and interdisciplinary training for professionals. Addressing these issues could reduce delays, alleviate parental stress, and promote better developmental outcomes for children with DD.