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IEP vs IFSP. What's the difference?

goldenleavesgoldenleaves member
in Special Needs

I learned today that our district is switching to all IFSP's instead of doing IEP's. What's the difference?

On a separate note, I confirmed today that we will have the choice to include in our IEP (or I guess IFSP) for Lauren to attend the local special ed preschool! I'm sure we'll push for mainstream ed for elementary and beyond but I love the smaller class size and practically 1:1 ratio the special needs preschool provides. And I really like the staff. And since it's public school we have the option of Lauren taking the school bus! I can't stop imagining Lauren wearing a tiny backpack and riding the bus!

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Re: IEP vs IFSP. What's the difference?

  • kar5162kar5162 member
    Here we have IFSP (family service plan) until 3 and then when they transfer into the school group they move to an IEP (education plan). From birth to three the focus is on supporting the child in the family and community, from 3+ it becomes about educational needs.
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  • goldenleavesgoldenleaves member
    Oh, thanks for clarifying! I wonder why our district is switching to all IFSP.
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  • MaxandRubyMaxandRuby member

    I found this online for you.  https://www.specialquest.org/sqtm/v2s8_comp_chart.pdf   (note: in this link they state an IEP is for ages 3-5)

    In general, an IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) is Part C of the IDEA. This is considered EI (early intervention) and is for children ages 0 - 3yrs of age. At age 3, a child typically ages out of EI and the IFSP and it is switch to an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) which is for ages 3-21. An IEP is Part B of the IDEA.

    The big differences IMO are that the IFSP is done in the child's natural environment (home or daycare) and an IEP is done at the school with school therapists. IEP goals must be educational in nature whereas the IFSP is for the needs of the family and child.

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  • goldenleavesgoldenleaves member
    Thank you! I'll make sure I ask next week why they're converting to an all IFSP method. That seems weird now!
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