source and more information found at: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/birthto3/family/index.htm

Wisconsin Birth to 3 Program for Families

The Wisconsin Birth to 3 Program is a statewide program that serves families with children under the age of 3 who have developmental delays or disabilities. The Wisconsin Birth to 3 Program is an early intervention special education program. It helps children under the age of 3 who have delays or disabilities. “Early intervention” is the term used for these services and supports for babies and young children and their families. In Wisconsin, early intervention is known as the Birth to 3 Program. The Birth to 3 Program knows that your child’s first and most important relationships are with your family. Your child’s services will be shaped by your family’s:

• Culture
• Beliefs
• Individual needs

A team of professionals works with your child and your family. The services your family gets support your child’s development and growth, and your family’s knowledge, skills, and abilities. The Birth to 3 Program is here to help children grow and learn to their fullest potential.

Essential children's resources

Wisconsin Wayfinder supports families of children with delays, disabilities, special health care needs, and mental health conditions. Children’s resource guides are helpers who assist families, caregivers, professionals, and organizations in finding a wide array of supports and services available through the Children’s Resource Network.

Learn more about this free and confidential service

The Birth to 3 Program team

Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) supports each county Birth to 3 program at the state level.

You can contact DHS at the Bureau of Children's Services (BCS) Technical Assistance Center at DHSBCSTAC@dhs.wisconsin.gov or 608-267-6767.

County

The Birth to 3 Program is in every Wisconsin county. Local county programs work directly with families. County staff are there to:

• Help you understand the program.
• Make a referral to the Birth to 3 Program.
• Answer your questions.
• Help you get support and services.

Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) team

As part of the Birth to 3 Program, families have an IFSP. Your IFSP is a plan to help meet the unique goals of your family and child.

You are an important part of the IFSP team. Together, the team works to help your child be a part of your family’s daily routines and activities, both at home and in the community. The team includes professional service providers, such as:

• Early childhood special education teachers.
• Speech, occupational, and physical therapists.
• A service coordinator.

One of these professionals will be your primary coach. This coach will work with you during home visits. Their goal is to help support your child’s development and future education.

Services and supports

Together, the IFSP team will find ways to reach the goals that are part of your IFSP.

Services are based on your child’s goals. Your family’s goals will help decide:

• How services are offered.
• How often your child receives services.
• How long your child receives services.

Your IFSP might include:

• Special education services.
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
• Service coordination.
• Other services.

The IFSP is updated at least every six months. It can always be changed, especially as your child learns, grows, and develops.