New terms, new acronyms, new systems. This page breaks down the basics so you can feel informed and ready. Everything here is written to be supportive and easy to understand.
Early Intervention is a set of supports and services for babies and toddlers (birth to age three) who have developmental delays or disabilities, and for their families. Services are designed to help your child grow and learn during the years when their brain is developing the fastest — and to help you feel confident supporting them at home.
IDEA is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act — the federal law that gives children with disabilities the right to early intervention, special education, and related services. It's the foundation for most of the rights and protections families rely on, and it's organized into different parts.
Part C of IDEA covers Early Intervention services for infants and toddlers from birth up to age three. Supports are guided by an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) and are centered on the whole family — often delivered in your home or another familiar setting.
Part B of IDEA covers special education and related services for eligible children ages three through twenty-one. This is the school-based system, where support is guided by an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Around your child's third birthday, services may shift from Part C (Early Intervention) to Part B (school-based services). This is called the transition. Eligibility is re-evaluated, a new team gets involved, and an IEP may replace the IFSP. It's a big change — and one you don't have to navigate alone.
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan for a child who qualifies for special education. It describes your child's strengths and needs, sets goals, and lists the services, supports, and accommodations the school will provide. You are a full and equal member of the IEP team.
Bring these to your next IEP, transition, or planning meeting. Good questions keep the focus on your child and help you understand every decision.
That's exactly what a free consultation is for. We'll talk it through and identify a clear first step.
You have the right to be heard. We'll prepare your questions and priorities, and I can stand beside you.
The Part C to Part B transition has a rhythm to it. We'll map the timeline so nothing is missed.
Plans, evaluations, and reports can be dense. I'll help translate them into plain language you can act on.
Reach out if you're unsure where to start, feel unheard in meetings, are approaching your child's third birthday, don't understand the paperwork, or simply want a knowledgeable guide in your corner.