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 is My Role under ESS?

You are a member of the IFSP team and an IFSP meeting cannot be held without you or your Service Coordinator.  You can invite anyone to your IFSP meetings including other family members, childcare staff, friends or outside doctors.  Since you are the key member of the IFSP team, the more of an active role that you take, the more individualized and meaningful the plan will be.  You should feel free to share your goals and priorities for your family and child with the IFSP team. 


You are your child’s first and best teacher.  ESS will involve you by demonstrating skills and techniques that you can use during play, meals, bath time, rest and other daily routines to help your child develop new abilities.  Creating a trusting and respectful relationship with your ESS team will help your child achieve the most of out every session.  You should feel comfortable talking to the team about your child’s progress or letting them know if you would like to see things done differently.  If your child receives services in the child care or settings outside your home, don’t hesitate to call your Service Coordinator to discuss services or your child’s progress.

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