Outline the differences between IFSPs, IEPs, and 504 Accommodation Plans. Give an example of when each would be used to provide services to a child with special needs.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Federal law mandates that each young child eligible for special education services be given individualized service plan of some kind. IFSP’s are designed specifically for infants and toddlers (and for some preschoolers). Student examples will vary, but practicitioners would use an IFSP when working with Maggie, an infant with developmental and cognitive delays who is enrolled a home-center program. The IFSP is the best choice since these plans are typically used when dealing with children birth to age 3. An IEP, while similar to an IFSP in some ways, is provided for preschoolers and young school-aged children. The IEP is not as family focused as an IFSP but does encourage family participation at an agreed upon level. Schools would use an IEP for Mark, a 5-year-old in a Kindergarten classroom, who has been identified with a physical disability. Mark needs assistance getting to class, and he has adapted participation needs in the classroom due to mobility issues. Finally, the 504 accommodation plan is used for school-aged (and older) individuals who have a disability but who may not qualify under IDEA. Schools may use an accommodation plan for Billy, a student with a documented lower than average IQ and who has difficulty keeping up with math and reading in the classroom. The 504 plan can be used to help Billy succeed in the classroom.