Module One: Lesson Two

What is an Individualized Family Support Plan (IFSP)?

Early Steps defines the Individualized Family Support Plan (IFSP) as the family-centered process to identify and organize both formal and informal resources that assists families in reaching goals for their children and themselves. The IFSP documents and guides the early intervention process for children with disabilities and their families in accordance with the IDEA, Part C Regulations, 34 CFR, Section 303.340.

Individualized family support planning is a dynamic process that adapts to the ever-changing needs of infants and toddlers and their families. The Individualized Family Support Plan

• identifies the specific concerns and priorities of the family related to enhancing their child's development,
• documents specific services and supports that are necessary to help meet the unique needs of the child and family in their everyday routines, activities, and places, and
• coordinates the supports and services needed to facilitate a child's development and enhance the family's capacity to facilitate the child's development.

Family members and service providers work as a team to plan, implement, and evaluate services tailored to the family's unique concerns, priorities, and resources.

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