Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my child does not qualify for ESS?
Some doctors or specialists order a specific number of hours of therapy. For example Speech 3 times per week. This is a typical therapy protocol for out-patient services. However, ESS uses a trans- disciplinary approach which is designed to help your family and child develop within a natural environment. In a trans-disciplinary approach to providing services one service provider may fulfill a variety of service roles in your child’s care. For example a physical therapist who is working balance and leg strengthening might incorporate an activity of bubble blowing to help your child work on lip closure to help with speech. ESS services are provided in natural environments rather than in an office or clinic because ESS is intended to support families within the daily happenings of their lives and their communities. Natural settings are places where children without disabilities or delays live, play and learn. These settings can include your home, homes of your friends or family members, child care settings, neighborhood play groups, recreational activities, libraries and other community settings.
What if I want to change the services in the IFSP?
As your child develops new skills and abilities or if you notice new concerns, you may wish to change the IFSP outcomes or services. You can request an IFSP meeting or an IFSP review. You and your Service Coordinator will discuss your concerns and how these changes affect your child and family’s goals. If any changes are going to be made to the IFSP, your signature is required. In the event that you don’t agree with the changes and refuse to sign, your child will continue to receive their current services.
How often is the IFSP reviewed or revised?
At any time you may request a reevaluation or reassessment to determine progress, redefine services and outcomes and/or plan for future needs. The IFSP itself must be reviewed at least every six months. At least annually, a formal reevaluation must be conducted to review eligibility and update services in the IFSP. Your written parental consent must be given before any evaluations can occur and any changes can be made to the IFSP. If you do not provide consent, the IFSP will remain unchanged.

Developing the IFSP

Once your child has been determined eligible for ESS, the team will develop an Individualized Family Support Plan (IFSP).  The IFSP helps to ensure that both your family and child receive the services and supports needed to help the child grow and develop. If you are willing, the IFSP should include a statement of your family’s strengths, needs and concerns relating to promoting your child’s development. It must, however, include the following:

  • A statement of the child’s present level of physical development, cognitive development, communication development, social or emotional development, and adaptive development
  • A statement of major outcomes expected to be achieved for both the child and the family, along with the methods, procedures, criteria and timelines to determine progress
  • A statement of exactly what services will be needed to meet the needs of the child and family
  • The natural environments in which the supports and services will be provided (If services will not be provided in a natural setting a statement as to why, a plan for the future provision of services in a natural setting and a time line for it must be included)
  • The frequency, intensity, and method of delivery, and persons responsible for implementing the services, along with projected dates and duration
  • A summary of document medical services a child may need such as hospitalization, surgery or medication and to the extent possible, funding sources (even though Early Supports and Services will not be required to pay for these services)
  • The name, phone number, agency, and location of the case manager and the names of all team members
  • Beginning at 24 months, the steps that will be taken to support the transition from Early Supports and Services to the school district, Area Agency services for children 3 years of age or older, or community programs  (link to What happens when my child turns 3)
  • Parent signature

What’s my role on the IFSP team?

What if I disagree with the IFSP?

My child is going to be 24 months, what is a transition plan?