An Individualized Family Service Plan is the early intervention equivalent of an IEP, covering children from birth to age 3 under IDEA Part C. Unlike the IEP, the IFSP is family-centered — it addresses not just the child's developmental needs but also the family's priorities, resources, and concerns. The plan includes the child's present developmental levels, family outcomes, specific early intervention services (speech, OT, developmental therapy, family training), the natural environments where services will occur (usually the home or childcare), and a transition plan for when the child turns 3. Services under an IFSP are provided at no cost to families regardless of income. A service coordinator helps the family navigate the system.
IFSP services can run alongside waiver applications. Since waiver waitlists often take months or years, early intervention through the IFSP provides critical support while you wait.