Understanding the Early Intervention System
An overview of the early intervention process with information on how to start receiving these services.
Early Intervention
Early intervention is a system of coordinated services that promotes the child’s growth and development and supports families during the critical early years. Early intervention services for eligible children ages birth to 3 and their families are federally mandated through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
The Individualized Family Service Plan — the “IFSP” — is the heart of early intervention. A written plan, called an IFSP, is developed by a team to record the family’s outcomes for themselves and their child. Learn how the IFSP is developed.
What You Need to Know Before Your Child’s Third Birthday: Early Childhood Transition Guidebook
This guidebook includes information on what transition is, how and when to plan for it, how to determine if your child is eligible for Help Me Grow Preschool Special Education services, how to implement the transition plan, and what to do if your child is not eligible for special education services. You’ll find tips and facts that can help you plan for this important change in services before you light those three candles.
Preparing for Transition from Early Intervention to an Individualized Education Program
Your child’s third birthday is six months away, and you have been told that your family will be doing “transition planning” soon because the early intervention program ends at age three. This means your child may be moving from an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) to an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Learn more about this transition.
How to Communicate Effectively with Early Childhood Professionals
Children with disabilities also have a lot of abilities. By communicating both your child’s needs and strengths to early childhood professionals, you can help them select services that will be most appropriate for your son or daughter.
A Family Guide to Participating in the Child Outcomes Measurement Process
As a parent of a young child who is in an early intervention (EI) or early childhood special education (ECSE) program, you want to be sure these services are helping your child develop and learn. These services are designed to make the most of each child’s potential, as well as to strengthen the family’s ability to help their child.
Natural Environments
Natural environments are more than people, places, and objects. They’re an essential part of your child’s right to inclusive early childhood special education services under Part C of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Least Restrictive Environments (LRE)
Least restrictive environment (LRE) is a requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Learn more about LREs and how they can be beneficial to your child.