About Individualized Family Services Plans

If a child is diagnosed with a developmental delay or other disability requiring early intervention services, the state's Early Intervention Program works with the family to develop an Individualized Family Services Plan (IFSP).

The IFSP is a written document developed by a team of individuals including the child's parents and representatives from the state's Early Intervention Program.

The IFSP includes statements about:

• The infant/toddler's presenting levels of development based on objective criteria 
• The family's resources, priorities and concerns about enhancing the development of the infant or toddler 
• Measurable progress the infant/toddler is expected to achieve as a result of receiving services; the criteria, procedures and timelines that will be used to determine his/her progress; and whether modifications or revisions of the outcomes or services are necessary
• The specific early intervention services necessary to meet the unique needs of the infant or toddler and his/her family, e.g., frequency, intensity and service delivery method
• The appropriate natural environment in which early intervention services may be provided and a justification of the extent, if any, to which services will not be provided in a natural environment
• The projected dates for initiation of services and the anticipated duration of services 
• The service coordinator that will be responsible for implementation of the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) and coordination with other agencies and persons
• Steps necessary to support the toddler's transition to preschool or other appropriate services.