Which document guides the early intervention process for young children with disabilities?

The Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is the guiding document for the early intervention process for young children with disabilities. This plan is designed to address the unique developmental needs of infants and toddlers, along with the needs of their families. An IFSP outlines specific services and supports required to aid in the child's development and is created collaboratively by a team that includes the child's family and professionals.

The focus of an IFSP is on the family unit, recognizing that family involvement is crucial for effective support and intervention. It includes goals and objectives tailored to the child's strengths and needs and details the necessary services, such as therapies or educational interventions, that will be provided. Moreover, the IFSP is revisited regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and effective in meeting the evolving needs of the child and the family.

In contrast, while the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is crucial for older children typically starting at age 3 or older, it is specifically oriented toward educational settings and is not designed for the birth to three age range that the IFSP covers. The other documents mentioned, the Educational Service Plan (ESP) and Student Learning Plan (SLP), serve different purposes and do not specifically address the early intervention process for young children with disabilities.