Module 1: Lesson 2: Referral and Intake

Referral and Intake

At this point in the process, someone calls or contacts Early Steps with the name of a child who they think might be eligible. Within 45 calendar days from the date of the referral, the initial Individualized Family Support Plan is developed for the eligible child and family as set forth in the IDEA, Part C Regulations, 34 CFR, Section 303.342. This involves completing the evaluation and assessment activities and holding a meeting of the IFSP meeting participants to develop the initial Individualized Family Support Plan.

The referral and intake process might happen somewhat differently depending on each Local Early Steps procedures. Once a Local Early Steps receives a referral, the intake procedure begins. The individual conducting the intake may vary from one Local Early Steps to another. A designated staff person, the service coordinator assigned to the family, or another provider, may conduct the intake and/or first contacts. Some Local Early Steps combine intake and first contact functions. The Local Early Steps assigns a service coordinator as soon as possible.

The purposes of intake activities are as follows:

• contact the family and acknowledge receipt of the referral
• provide introductory information on Early Steps
• schedule a face-to-face contact with the family and the assigned service coordinator, or other designated provider, to conduct first contact activities in the family's typical environment

If contact is not made with the family within 5 (five) calendar days of receipt of referral, a Local Early Steps may close a child's record after documenting three attempts at contact, including one attempted face-to-face contact, or decline of services by the family.

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