If a child is already receiving “early intervention” or “Early Start” services, the district must ensure that the child experiences a smooth and effective transition to preschool programs^[1] It must also ensure that an individual education program (IEP) has been developed and is being implemented by the time of the child’s third birthday.^[2]  

Six months before the child’s third birthday, the service coordinator must: 

1. Notify the parent/guardian/other education rights holder of a child who may be eligible for special education preschool services that transition planning will occur within the next 3 to 6 months; and 
2. Notify the local school district that there will be an Individual Family Service Plan [IFSP] meeting at least three months before the child turns three.  Everyone must agree on a date for this meeting at least 30 days after the service coordinator’s notice.^[3] 

If a child turns three during the summer months, the IEP team must determine the date when IEP services will begin.^[4] 

1. 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1437(a)(9); Cal Ed. Code Sec. 56426.9(a).[↩]
2. Cal. Ed. Code Sec. 56426.9(b); 34 C.F.R. Secs. 300.124(a) & (b).[↩]
3. 17 C.C.R. Sec. 52112 (a) & (b).[↩]
4. Cal. Ed. Code Sec. 56426.9(d).[↩]