Consultation services, where the early interventionist consults with the family or other caregivers, is another type of methodology. The repetition and frequency of this practice increases the learning due to the increased engagement. By teaching parents and caregivers what to do with their children in the natural routines of daily living using the materials and toys naturally found in the home, the achievement of IFSP outcomes is strengthened. Remember, the IFSP team eventually determines the type, the amount, and the method of delivery for the early intervention services a child and family receive. Diagnostic reports must contain therapy recommendations.
Diagnostic reports provide information about the child's functioning as assessed.
Recommendations for therapy, including the frequency and intensity of therapy, are not to be in diagnostic reports. The IFSP team determines what early intervention services are needed to support the IFSP outcomes. First Steps is out of money. As in past years, the costs of the First Steps system have increased. This is due to increased numbers of children and continued inefficiencies of the system.