What is an IFSP ? If a infant or toddler is determined to be eligible for services, the Early Start program meets and collaborates with the family to develop a written Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). The IFSP meeting is held in the family home. The IFSP is developed to address the developmental strengths and needs of the infant or toddler, review parental concerns, priorities and resources. Additionally, developmental outcomes (goals) and early intervention services will be identified to help the child and parent attain the desired developmental outcomes (goals). Who provides services and supports? Early intervention services are individually determined for each eligible infant or toddler and are provided, purchased, or arranged by a regional center or local education agency. Local education agencies are primarily responsible for services for infants with vision, hearing, and severe orthopedic impairments, including any combination of these solely low incidence disabilities. Regional centers are responsible for services for all other children eligible for Early Start. Family resource centers that receive Early Start funding provide parent-to-parent support, information, and referral for all families. How much does it cost? Early Start services are provided at no cost to eligible families. Early Start is funded by state and federal funds. Other publicly funded services may also be used. Private insurance is another resource that is used to fund early intervention services. Use of private insurance is required for medical therapies that include occupational, physical, and speech therapies and behavioral services. What are early intervention services? Early intervention services are provided based on the developmental needs of the child, the concerns and priorities of the family, and the resources available to them. Services are provided within the context of the child's and family’s daily activities and routines. Eligible children and families may receive a variety of early intervention services based on the individualized and assessed need; some children may need only one or two early intervention services. Early intervention services may include:
➤ occupational therapy ➤ physical therapy ➤ psychological services ➤ social work services ➤ child development services ➤ speech and language services ➤ vision services
➤ audiology or hearing services ➤ family training and counseling
➤ nursing services ➤ nutrition services ➤ service coordination (case management)
➤ medical services for diagnosis and evaluation only ➤ assistive technology, including devices or services
What is the Family Focus Resource Centers (FFRC)? California’s Early Start Family Focus Resource Centers (FFRCs) are staffed by parents who have children with special needs and provide information and parent to parent support. Each FRC is unique, reflecting the needs of their community. They may operate as independent sites or be based in regional centers, local education agencies, public health facilities, hospitals, or homes. Services are available in many languages and are culturally responsive to the needs of the individual family. Are other services available? Yes. The California Departments of Education, Health Care Services, Public Health, Mental Health, Social Services, and Alcohol and Drug Programs are state agencies that provide services and resources that may be of benefit to children and their families. Each agency determines eligibility for the services that it provides. Does early intervention make a difference? Years of research on the effectiveness of intervention has shown conclusively that early intervention is effective (Wolery & Bailey, 2003; Guralnick, 1997). Specialized services and supports, such as physical therapy, speech and language therapy, child development services, home visits, family support, and service coordination, increase the chances a child will develop to his or her full potential ( Zero to Three Policy Brief , February 2003). How do I get more information? Visit DDS’ Early Start website at www.dds.ca.gov/earlystart or call 800.515.BABY for resource information and referral to local regional centers, education agencies, and family resource centers.
Supporting people with developmental disabilities in the San Fernando, Santa Clarita, and Antelope Valleys since 1974
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