An Individualized Family Service Plan is developed for every child receiving services through the Illinois early intervention system. Once eligibility is determined, and within 45 days of referral, the IFSP is developed by the early intervention team to support and build upon the strengths of the child’s family. The basic components of an IFSP are:
Child and Family Status
- Present levels of physical, cognitive, communication, social/emotional, and adaptive development based on evaluations, observations, and conversations with your family
- Resources, priorities, and concerns of family members closely involved with your child
Outcomes Expected
- Measurable changes and benefits that you want for your child and family
Early Intervention Services
- Those necessary to achieve identified outcomes
- Include “dosage”—method, duration, frequency, and intensity of services
- Must be provided in child’s natural environments to the maximum extent possible
Other Services
- Those provided but not required nor funded by early intervention
- Your service coordinator and/or parent liaison can assist you in finding these services
Service Coordinator
- Is responsible for implementing services
- Coordinates with other agencies and people
Transition Plan
- Outlines steps and services to support a smooth transition out of early intervention for any reason or when a child turns 3
- Begins no sooner than nine months before 3rd birthday
- Informs parents of options for services
Other details
- Beginning date for and duration of services
- Payment information
- Families must consent to services in writing
Important IFSP Dates
- Referral Date
- Intake Meeting
- Evaluation(s)
- IFSP Meeting
- Six-Month Review
To learn more about IFSPs in Illinois, please see Section 3 of The Illinois Early Intervention Program: A Guide for Families.
Related Resource(s)
- EI Newsletter: Volume 32, Issue 2 (Summer 2019)
- Public Awareness and State EI Messaging: The Illinois Early Intervention Program: A Guide for Families