Intervention, Management, Advocacy, and Systems of Care
Systems and services
Early intervention under IDEA Part C serves children from birth to age 3 through an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). From age 3 to 21, special education and related services fall under IDEA Part B and an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Therapy services include speech-language, occupational, and physical therapy. Applied behavior analysis is an evidence-based intervention for autism. Family-centered care and care coordination are essential.
Management principles
For ADHD, behavioral parent training and school accommodations are first-line for young children; medication is added for persistent impairment. For autism, early intensive behavioral and developmental intervention improves outcomes. For anxiety and depression, cognitive behavioral therapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are mainstays. For cerebral palsy, spasticity management and orthopedic surveillance are important. Transition planning begins in adolescence.
Traps
Do not “wait and see” when a child is eligible for early intervention. Do not confuse Part C (0-3) with Part B (3-21). Do not assume a medical diagnosis automatically yields school eligibility; educational impact must be documented. Do not overlook family barriers such as transportation, insurance, and language.
Worked example
A 2-year-old with global delay is referred to early intervention. The IFSP includes speech therapy, developmental instruction, and family coaching. At age 3, the family should be transitioned to the school district for an IEP evaluation. The rule of thumb: Part C before age 3, Part B at age 3 and older, with transition planning well before the third birthday.