Transition is the process of planning for your child's next steps when they are leaving early intervention services.  This process helps families: 

• Understand possible preschool or community options

• Decide if their child should be evaluated for preschool special education

• Prepare their child and family for a change in services

Transition planning focuses on helping children move smoothly from services for infants & toddlers to services for children ages 3-5. 

Transition dicussions typically begin when your child is around 2 years 3 months old. 

Planning for your child's transition begins well before your child turns 3. Starting at 2y3m, your team will begin discussing the transition with you. 

A transition conference will be scheduled from 2y3m-2y9m. At this meeting, possible preschool special education services and possible placement options will be discussed. 

Before your child's 3rd birthday, an evaluation may be needed to determine their eligibility for preschool services. If eligible, a meeting will be scheduled with preschool staff to discuss strengths, needs and service plans. 

1. Ask Questions Early

   • Ask about preschool program options, transportation, what a typical day looks like and how services support your child's goals.

2. Share what you Know

• You are the expert on your child! Share what works well, what challenges you see and your priorities for learning and development.

3. Bring Support

• You can invite someone to meetings such as a family member, childcare provider or another professional that knows your child.

4. Review the Evaluation

• Ask for results explained in plain language and how the results connect to services and goals.

5. Remember - You are a Part of the Team!

• You help make decisions about goals, services and what is best for your child. 

Parents have important rights during early intervention & the transition process. You have the right to:

1. Be Involved-You are an important member of the team! Your ideas, concerns and goals matter.

2. Give or Refuse Consent-Your written permission is required before: evaluations occur and services begin.

3. Ask Questions-You can ask for clarification or more information at any time. 

4. Review Records- You have the right to review your child's records and evaluation reports. 

5. Disagree with Decisions- If you disagree with decisions about evaluations or services you have options!

   • Discussing concerns with the team

   • Requesting another meeting

   • Using dispute resolution options