What is the purpose of IDEA Part C?

• A. Early intervention services are provided to children with special needs from birth to age three under IDEA Part C.
• B. Special education related services are provided to children with disabilities from ages 3 to 21 under IDEA Part B.
• C. IEP documents are required for all students regardless of eligibility.
• D. Present Levels of Performance determine the budget for services.

Answer: (A)

IDEA Part C is about providing early intervention services to infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families, birth through age three, to support development and participation in everyday activities. The plan for these services is the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), which focuses on the child’s development and the family’s needs, typically delivering services in natural environments such as home or community settings. This approach aims to prevent or lessen the impact of disabilities as children grow and transition to later supports.

That’s why the statement describing early intervention services for birth through age three under IDEA Part C is the best fit. It contrasts with Part B, which covers ages three through twenty-one and relies on IEPs for eligible students. Also, IEPs are not for all students regardless of eligibility, and Present Levels of Performance pertain to guiding IEP decisions—not to determining a service budget.