Learning about Transition

(FACTS/LRE grants permission for photocopying of this handout.)

An important step in promoting a positive transition for your child and family is learning about the transition process. At least 3 months before your child makes the move from early intervention to preschool someone from the early intervention program will meet with you to talk about transition and will work with you to develop a transition plan.

(NOTE: The federal law requires that planning for transition begin at least 90 days before a child turns 3; in some states, such as Illinois, state law requires that the planning begin even earlier, at least 6 months before the third birthday.)

Some of the topics that should be discussed during transition meetings are:

• What is involved in transition?
• When will your child make the transition to a new program?
• What decisions need to be made related to the changes in service delivery?
• Who will be involved in making decisions?
• When will decisions be made?
• What is your family's role in the transition process?
• Is your child eligible for special education and related services?
• What options are available (for example, community preschool, pre-kindergarten, self-contained special education)?
• How can you get information and learn about service options?
• What are the differences between early intervention and preschool programs?
• What are your child's and family's legal rights related to special education services?
• How can you prepare your child and family for transition?

Your family should feel free to ask questions during transition meetings and at any time during the year. Often it is helpful to make a list of questions or topics that you wish to discuss with program staff or the transition team. Space is provided here for you to write questions that you have or issues that you want to talk about.