Back to Special Project: Autism Initiative

Birth to 3 Years Old: Early Intervention (EI)

Early Intervention (EI) is a crucial program that focuses on infants and toddlers who have developmental delays. The services offered range from speech therapy to physical therapy, aimed at helping your child reach key developmental milestones. Each state has its own eligibility criteria, and to determine whether your child qualifies, you can request a free diagnosis. Parental consent is necessary for this step. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, a tailored plan called an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed. This plan is created in collaboration with experts and the parents, whose involvement is crucial. The effectiveness of the IFSP is reviewed every six months and undergoes a comprehensive annual evaluation.

Related Resources:

• • US Department of Education, Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Early Intervention Contact Information by State
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Learn the Signs. Act Early
  • Center for Parent Information and Resources, Overview of Early Intervention

New York State/City Government Resources

• • New York State Department of Health, Early Intervention Steps: A Parent’s Basic Guide to the Early Intervention Program 
  • New York State Early Intervention Program Referral Form (DOH-5775)
  • New York State Department of Health, Municipal/County Contacts for the Early Intervention Program
  • New York City Department of Health, Early Help Matters Brochure
  • New York City Department of Health, Your Family Rights in Early Intervention

Age 3-5: Preschool Special Education

When children turn 3, they may transition into Preschool Special Education if they have disabilities or developmental delays affecting their learning. These specialized services can sometimes start as early as kindergarten. To access these services, a diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional is necessary. In New York State, the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) is responsible for overseeing this program. Parents and CPSE officials work together to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is specific to the child’s unique needs. The details of these services can vary depending on both the school district’s offerings and the child’s condition.

Related Resources:

• • New York City Department of Education, Family Guide to Preschool Special Education Services
  • New York City Department of Education, Early Intervention to Preschool Transition
  • CIDA, Early Childhood Special Education & Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE)
  • Advocates for Children of New York, A Guide to Preschool Special Education Services
  • Include NYC, Preschool Special Education

Age 5-21: School-Age Special Education

Once a child turns 5, they now enter the School-Age Special Education Program. In New York, this program falls under the jurisdiction of the Committee on Special Education (CSE). For children already enrolled in a Preschool Special Education program, transitioning is typically seamless. Parents should expect to receive a formal letter by February 1st confirming this transition. If this letter is not received, contacting the local CSE office is recommended. Once in the program, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be continually updated and reviewed annually to ensure your child’s needs are being met.

Related Resources

• • New York City Department of Education, Kindergarten Orientation Guide (2023)
  • New York City Department of Education, Family Guide to Special Education Services
  • New York City Department of Education, Ask and Share (IEP Guide) Elementary School, Middle School, High School
  • CIDA, Glossary of Korean Translation of Common IDEA Terms
  • IncludeNYC, Turning 5: Preschoolers Transitioning to Kindergarten  

After Highschool (Transition)

Transition services focus on preparing your child for life after high school. According to disability education laws, transition planning should start by the time your child turns 16. However, if the IEP team thinks it’s beneficial, planning can begin even earlier. This phase involves discussions about your child’s future—whether that involves further education, employment, or community involvement. It’s a significant period for families to have in-depth conversations with their children and to consult experts, ensuring a more confident transition into adulthood.

Related Resources

• • Autism Speaks, Transition Tool Kit
  • CIDA, New York State Disability Resource Navigator for Preparing Adult Life
  • Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), Front Door: Access to Services
  • Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), Transition Planning: from school to adult lie
  • New York State Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCESS-VR) Application Process
  • New York City Department of Education, Family Guide to Transition Planning