Two Systems: Part C vs. Part B
IDEA provides two different systems based on your child's age:
Part C: Birth to Age 3
- • Called "Early Intervention" (EI)
- • Family-centered services
- • IFSP (not IEP)
- • Services often delivered at home
- • Run by your state's EI program
Part B: Ages 3-21
- • School-based special education
- • Child-centered services
- • IEP (Individualized Education Program)
- • Services at school or preschool setting
- • Run by school district
The "Turning 3" Transition: When your child turns 3, they transition from Part C (Early Intervention) to Part B (preschool special education). This must happen by their 3rd birthday, so start planning at age 2½.
Preschool IEP Eligibility (Ages 3-5)
Preschoolers can qualify under the standard 13 IDEA categories, but there's also a special category:
"Preschool Child with a Disability" / Developmental Delay
Many states allow young children (ages 3-9) to qualify under "Developmental Delay" without needing a specific disability diagnosis. This recognizes that:
- • Young children develop at different rates
- • Specific diagnoses can be hard at young ages
- • Early intervention shouldn't wait for labels
What Counts as "Developmental Delay"?
Your child may qualify if they show delays in one or more areas:
Physical Development
Motor skills, coordination
Cognitive Development
Thinking, problem-solving
Communication
Speech, language, understanding
Social/Emotional
Relationships, self-regulation
Adaptive Behavior
Self-care, daily living skills
Transitioning from Early Intervention
If your child received Early Intervention services, here's what happens at age 3:
Transition Conference (at 2½)
Your EI coordinator schedules a meeting with the school district to discuss your child's transition options.
School District Evaluation
The school district must evaluate your child to determine eligibility for preschool special education—EI eligibility doesn't automatically transfer.
IEP Before 3rd Birthday
If eligible, the IEP must be in place and services started by your child's 3rd birthday. Don't let the district miss this deadline!
Warning: Some children lose services during transition because they don't meet school-age criteria. If this happens, request detailed reasons in writing and consider an Independent Educational Evaluation.
Preschool Special Education Services
Related Services
- • Speech-language therapy
- • Occupational therapy
- • Physical therapy
- • Counseling/social work
- • Assistive technology
- • Transportation
Placement Options
- Inclusive preschool: Regular preschool with support services
- Integrated classroom: Mix of children with and without IEPs
- Special education preschool: Smaller class, specialized instruction
- Home/community-based: Services in natural environments
Extended School Year (ESY)
If your child would significantly regress over summer break, they may qualify for ESY services to maintain skills year-round.
Tips for Preschool IEPs
✅ Start Early
Begin the process at age 2½ to ensure services are in place by the 3rd birthday.
✅ Request All Evaluations
Don't rely only on EI evaluations. Request comprehensive assessments from the school district in all areas of concern.
✅ Consider LRE
"Least Restrictive Environment" means your child should be with typically developing peers to the maximum extent appropriate.
✅ Plan for Kindergarten
The preschool IEP should include transition goals to prepare for kindergarten.