Which of the following is a focus area of early intervention strategies?

Improving social skills and communication is a crucial focus area of early intervention strategies. Early intervention aims to support children with developmental delays or disabilities during their formative years. Social skills and effective communication are foundational elements that impact a child's ability to interact with peers, form relationships, and navigate social environments.

By enhancing these skills early on, practitioners help children gain the confidence and abilities needed to engage with others, which can ultimately lead to improved academic performance and better emotional regulation. Targeted interventions often include play-based activities, social stories, and structured interactions that encourage children to practice and develop these vital skills in a supportive environment.

Other areas, while important in their own right, do not typically align as closely with the initial goals of early intervention. For instance, developing IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) is a subsequent step once a child's needs have been identified. Standardized testing preparation becomes more relevant as children progress through their education, and physical fitness programs, while beneficial, do not specifically address the core needs of early intervention focused on communication and social development.