STATE & LOCAL SERVICES
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Services Following the evaluation process, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is written at a meeting with the family, the service coordinator, at least one member of the evaluation team and anyone else the family wishes to include. The IFSP is a written document that identifies services and supports needed for the child and family. It is based on information collected from the family, as well as from the evaluation and assessment. In order for the child to receive services, the parent must consent to the plan. Parents have the right to withdraw consent at any time. Out of the services offered, parents can reject some services and accept others. The plan is reviewed every six months, or more frequently as appropriate to make sure it continues to meet the needs of the child and family. At least once a year, parents participate in a meeting to review their child's outcomes and IFSP services for any changes needed. The meeting must be held at a time and location that is agreeable to the family and in the language or method of communication that is used in their home.
• Nursing services • Nutrition services • Occupational therapy Early intervention may include the following services: • Assistive technology • Audiology services • Family training, counseling, and home visits
• Transportation • Vision services • Special instruction (New Jersey uses the term Developmental Intervention ) • Psychological services • Service coordination services
• Physical therapy • Speech therapy • Social work
• Health services • Medical services
Transition to Preschool An important part of early intervention services is assisting children and families to make the move from the early intervention program to school services as smooth as possible. This process is called transition. When a child is approximately 2.5 years old, a transition information meeting will be held with the parents, service coordinator, and others who have worked with the child and family to begin planning for services and supports that might be needed when the child turns 3. As in other meetings about a child’s needs and progress, it is essential that parents are part of the planning. As a child approaches 3 years of age, the service coordinator will help with transition from early intervention to a preschool program which may be provided by their local school district, and/or other service providers, based on the child’s needs. Financial Contribution
The Department of Health has set up a Family Cost Participation system to determine each family’s ability to contribute toward NJEIS services. Based on family size and household income, NJEIS determines the per hour co-pay for a family. This amount cannot exceed the actual cost of service and will not be more than 5% of the family’s monthly income. Families with an annual income at or above 300% of the federal poverty level will be required to participate in the costs of NJEIS services provided. Families must agree to provide required income documentation to determine family cost participation for services. For more information see www.nj.gov/health/fhs/eis/ .
It is common to feel overwhelmed when
learning about early intervention, educational services, and your child’s rights. There may be a lot of unfamiliar vocabulary, services, and procedures. If you need more information to understand your
rights in special education, please call 800.4.AUTISM to speak with one of our knowledgeable and
compassionate staff members.
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