IDEA Part C

IFSP

Individualized Family Service Plan

Definition

An IFSP is the written plan required under IDEA Part C (34 CFR §303.340-§303.346) for infants and toddlers (ages 0-3) with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions. Unlike an IEP, it centers the family: it documents child status across five domains (cognitive, physical, communication, social-emotional, adaptive), family resources and priorities, measurable outcomes, early-intervention services in natural environments, and the transition plan to Part B preschool services at age 3.

Regulatory Citation

34 CFR §303.340-§303.346; 20 U.S.C. §1436

Example in Practice

A 14-month-old with a diagnosis of Down syndrome receives weekly speech-language pathology sessions, biweekly occupational therapy, and monthly developmental-specialist coaching for caregivers — all delivered in the family home per the natural-environments requirement.

Key Research Citations

·Rush & Shelden (2020) — The Early Childhood Coaching Handbook, 2nd ed., Brookes
·McWilliam (2010) — Routines-Based Early Intervention, Guilford
·Nelson, Sullivan & Engelstad (2024, J Child Psychology & Psychiatry 65(4):435-455) — Early intervention and developmental neuroscience

Full bibliography available on the Research page.

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This glossary entry is educational. It is not legal or clinical advice. Consult a qualified attorney or licensed clinician before making decisions that rely on this summary.