Dear Families,
Welcome to When I'm 3, Where Will I Be? A Family's Transition Workbook. This workbook was developed by parents and early intervention and school personnel to provide information as you approach your child's transition from Early Intervention services. We hope it will be useful to you and your family.
It may seem as if Early Intervention (EI) has just started and it is already time to talk about change. Transition from EI is a time of change, and change can be a challenge for all of us. Families that shared their stories and experiences in this workbook want you to know that transition can also be an exciting time as you and your family move on to new experiences, learn new things, develop new partnerships and continue to shape new hopes and dreams for your child. We hope you use the stories, insights, and resources shared in this workbook to better understand the transition process. The more you know about transition, the more comfortable you will feel as you and your child get ready to move beyond EI together.
A formal transition process begins when your child is 2 years 6 months of age. This workbook will take you step by step through the six-month transition process. If you feel that you need more time, you can begin this process sooner. The supports, meetings and services that will be provided to you throughout the transition process are tailored to meet your needs. We want you and your child to be ready to leave Early Intervention services when your child turns 3.
You will receive information about preschool programs and services in your community. You will learn how those services can be individualized so your child will be successful in the new early childhood setting. Children receiving EI services and who are determined eligible for Early Childhood Special Education must have a plan for those services. As you can see, this transition process is more than just one meeting or one document. We encourage you to participate in the complete transition process and take advantage of all the supports and services that will be available to you.
The parents, early intervention and school personnel who contributed to When I'm 3, Where Will I Be? A Family's Transition Workbook hope you use this as a resource and a planner on this journey. Every journey begins with the first step. So, let's begin by taking a deep breath and focusing on your child. The following Parent Page: My Child and Family is yours to use as you get ready for the next step.
With warm regards,
The Family's Transition Workbook Committee
Parent Page: My Child and Family
Important people in our family (with several lines to fill in the answer)
Things we enjoy doing as a family (with several lines to fill in the answer)
How early intervention services have helped my child (with several lines to fill in the answer)
My family, friends and I can help my child do these things (with several lines to fill in the answer)
These are some of my hopes for my child and family (with several lines to fill in the answer)
