Frequently Asked Questions

How can I actively participate in the ESS Visit?
- Share any information that has happened since the last ESS visit
- Hold your child or sit nearby so that you can learn and practice new skills
- Take pictures during the session to help you remember techniques
- Ask the Service Coordinator to write down the directions or techniques for you
How can I get the most out of ESS visits?
- Be prepared: try to schedule the visits when you and your child will be more likely to have the energy to participate.
- If there are siblings, will they participate or be a distraction?
- Be ready to share what has occurred since the last ESS visit. Has your child started to use a new skill or has there been a change in your child’s daily routine or sleep schedule? Are there any new behaviors?
- Plan the visit schedule. For instance, the first 30 minutes will be treatment, then 15 minutes of training for you on how to implement it at home and then 15 minutes for questions and discussion.
What information should I share with the ESS team?
- What does your child like/dislike?
- What frustrates your child?
- What does your child do during the day?
- Do you notice any behavioral chances with your child?
- Has there been any changes in your family recently?
- What thinks do you like to do as a family?
- What doctors, agencies or therapists are already working with your family?
- What are your family’s strengths in meeting your child’s needs?
- What do you want the team to know about your family and child?

What if I disagree with the IFSP?

You have the right to disagree with the ESS team and the Area Agency.  If at any time you disagree with the services your child is receiving, you may access either formal or informal means to resolve your concerns. These are called procedural safeguards.

Informal options include asking for additional IFSP meetings, sharing of additional information or including others in the meeting to share information.  Formal options include mediation, filing a formal written complaint or a due process hearing.

In an effort to maintain an effective working relationship with ESS, it is recommended that the first step be to talk with your Service Coordinator.  If this is not bringing a resolution, the next step would be to contact the ESS Director at the Area Agency.  Whenever you have a meeting or phone conversation, make sure that you keep notes so that you have a record of what has been decided or discussed.  If you still do not feel the issue has been addressed or resolved, the next step would be to voice your concerns with the Bureau of Developmental Services at the Department of Health and Human Services. 

Please contact the Parent Information Center on Special Education to discuss this and the formal options for resolving disputes. 

Return to Developing the IFSP