The first CAMSP was created in Paris following the effort of Mme J. Lévy who had worked since 1971 in the “Centre du Tout Petit”, rue Rozanoff.

From 1978 to 1982 this experience inspired long reflections in Alès and eventually conducted to the law of 1975 about disabled people with:

• Alès Council
• The APEI ( Association de Parents de l’Enfance Inadaptée / Parent Association for Handicapped Children)
• Alès Basin Early Childhood Workers

With the by-law of February 11th, 1982 , the Prefect of Gard authorized the creation of the CAMSP with a reception structure fitted for 40 children. Alès Council decided that the center should open on December 20th, 1982. Alès CCAS manages this center.

Financing

• 80% is taken on by the Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie ( French government department dealing with health insurance)
• 20% left are in the charge of the regional council.

In January 1991, the CAMSP enlarged its reception facilities because of the number of children taken in charge. It now can receive 80 children.
CAMSPs receive children from birth to the age of 6 if they run any risk in their development or have any deficiency: muscular, sensory, mental deficiencies, behavior disorder, or communication and interpersonal troubles.