When a child with a disability turns three, they are no longer eligible for Early Intervention Services.  New or alternative services and supports may be available if the child qualifies for early childhood special education services.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that a written transition plan be created at age 3 for any child receiving Early Intervention Services.  A child receiving Early Intervention Services is already connected with a Family Resource Coordinator (FRC) . 

A transition plan identifies how the family, the FRC, and others involved in providing early intervention services to the eligible child will help the child move beyond early intervention services at age three.  The plan describes what supports will be needed as the child enters the local school district special education program or other community-based services, or leaves supports and services because the child is no longer eligible for services and supports related to the child's development.

When to Start Transition Planning

Transition planning generally begins six months before a child's third birthday.  The Family Resource Coordinator will facilitate contact with the school district to determine whether the child is eligible for school district services.  If eligible, services will be provided for the child through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).  An IEP meeting (different from the transition planning meeting) involves the local school district, the family, and others that work with the child.

Developing the Plan

The family and the early intervention team work together to develop the transition plan.  The team includes the family, the Family Resource Coordinator, and other people who know and work with the child or who the family wishes to be involved in the child's support network.  The team will look at the child's progress and future needs.  The Family Resource Coordinator coordinates the development of the transition plan.

What Services Are Available

What services are available to the eligible child at age three depends on whether the child needs early childhood special education services.  The local school district will help determine whether the child qualifies.  If the child is eligible for services through the school district, a variety of service setting options may be available, such as home and community programs, Head Start, Early Childhood Education Assistance Program (ECEAP), or a school-based program.  

How to Help in the Transition Process

Some ways the family can help prepare for the transition from early intervention services:

• Asking the transition team to help with strategies;

• Ask about service options or choices of services;

• Keep a notebook about the child's activities and interests.  Include the child's birth certificate, immunization record, medical reports, photographs, evaluations, assessments, and past Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP's);

• Attend orientation events that new programs offer for families.  Ask how the family can be involved in the child's learning at home and at the program;

• Advocate for the child.  The family knows the child's needs best.  Know what to expect of the child and work with the school district and IEP team to obtain the services that the child needs.

• Ask how the family will be kept informed about the child's adjustment to new services.  Find out when program reports will be provided and make sure this information is included in the IEP.

• Find out about local family support groups and resources.  Find out if the district has a family services worker or social worker who can help if the family has concerns.

Other Information Resources

• Washington State Infant Toddler Early Intervention Program - A Family's Guide to Early Intervention Services in Washington State
  http://www.wa.gov/dshs/iteip/family6.html