Transition from First Steps

Transition is a lengthy process with the end goal being that a child moves into a post-First Steps program that appropriately addresses his or her needs. The transition process requires First Steps to complete a number of required tasks throughout the process—sending notices to Lead Education Agencies at 18 and 30 months of age, scheduling a transition meeting, conducting a transition conference, etc. However, families must also take an active role in the process to ensure a smooth transition from system to system.

One key concept that families must understand is that there isn’t a “go-to” person like a First Steps service coordinator once a child transitions out of First Steps. There may be new, and possibly some ongoing, professionals (i.e. teachers, school therapists, private therapists, other medical professionals) that will work with your child, but it is unlikely that any one of these people will have the knowledge about all the services and programs your child is involved in like your First Steps service coordinator had along the way. Therefore, you as parent or guardian must be prepared to take on that role of service coordinator for your child and more than ever you need to be an advocate for your child and family. By starting early to gather information about ongoing services needed for your child, you are helping to create a smooth transition for your child.

Your First Steps service coordinator will work with you on a transition plan which addresses many of the issues you will need to consider. Financial planning is a big part of that plan. What type of insurance or health program is in place to cover your child’s medical needs? Are there other programs you should apply for? What types of services will be covered? Will your child need ongoing therapies outside of school-related services? If so, are these services covered? Will you need to pick new therapists? Chances are high that you will need to travel outside
the home to find therapy. Do you know how to locate potential providers? Will your child need any equipment after they leave First Steps? Do you know where to go to get this equipment? Will your insurance or health program cover these equipment expenses? All at once, these questions may seem overwhelming, especially combined with choosing an appropriate program for your child. However, by starting early to gather answers to these questions, they won’t seem so overwhelming when your child’s third birthday arrives.

So, how do you find answers to your questions? Start by talking with your First Steps providers and service coordinator. Have questions ready for your transition meeting. This is an ideal time to get answers to some of your concerns. Talk with the medical professionals your child already sees, and talk with other families to find out how they found resources and information. Find a local support group or join a listserv to connect with other families. You may have to look to lots of different places for answers. You might want to look at the Indiana Transition Initiative website and/or the Transition Guide available from the DOE.

Consider this exercise just the beginning steps on the advocacy path you’ll travel for your child. (from First Words Dec 2006)