First, a screening takes place upon parent’s/guardian’s request, which may be the result of an early education provider’s recommendation.

The information on this brief screening tool will determine if a child should be evaluated further.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for general development, both developmental and behavioral, at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months of age or at any time a family or provider has a concern.

Based on the Screening, a formal evaluation is completed by an EI specialist.

As a result of the formal evaluation process, an evaluation report is completed. The findings in the evaluation report are presented to family/guardians before any services are put into place. Specialized services are determined based on information from the formal evaluation, evaluation report, and family input.

It is possible for a child to be evaluated but not qualify for additional services. 

IFSP, Individualized Family Service Plan or an IEP, Individual Education Program, is developed based on the results of the evaluation if a child is found to be eligible for services. For children ages birth through three, the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) is a written, whole family plan.

Formal EI services begin. Early education providers work with the EI team to support skill development that assist the identified child in making gains toward the goals that were established in the IFSP or IEP. Progress monitoring is done throughout the course of the year. It is possible and encouraged that the EI team reconvenes and updates goals if progress is made sooner. Alternately, if progress is not being made as anticipated, it is encouraged to set up a team meeting to reassess the appropriate goals. At no time can changes be made to the IEP or IFSP without family/guardian permission.