IDEA Part C: Individualized Family Service Plan
What IDEA Says
Following are some points from IDEA Part C on the individualized family service plan (IFSP) specific to school readiness and peer-reviewed research.
§303.344 Content of an IFSP
§303.344(d)(1)
"The IFSP must include a statement of the specific early intervention services, based on peer-reviewed research (to the extent practicable), that are necessary to meet the unique needs of the child and the family to achieve the results or outcomes identified in paragraph (c) of this section...."
Implications for ASHA Members
Members need to be aware that a statement must be included in the IFSP that indicates the early intervention services provided are based on peer-reviewed research (to the extent practicable).
What ASHA Members Can Do
Audiologists and Speech-langauge pathologists (SLPs) should be current in their knowledge of research related to early intervention and ensure that the IFSP includes a statement that early intervention services are based on peer-reviewed research.
Additional changes in the IFSP regulations related to service coordination, natural environments, timelines, qualified providers, and evaluation and assessment can be found in other Part C resources.
§303.344(d)(4)
"For children who are at least three years of age, the IFSP must include an educational component that promotes school readiness and incorporates pre-literacy, language, and numeracy skills."
Implications for ASHA Members
Members serving on an IFSP team need to be aware that an educational component that promotes school readiness and incorporates pre-literacy, language, and numeracy skills needs to be included in an IFSP for children with disabilities who are at least 3-years old.
What ASHA Members Can Do
Members need to:
- Ensure that the IFSP includes an educational component that promotes school readiness and incorporates pre-literacy, language, and numeracy skills for children with disabilities who are at least 3-years old.
- Be current and knowledgeable about specific methods for incorporating pre-literacy, language, and numeracy skills in everyday routines and activities.
