Transition is an important element of the Early Start
experience. It is presented to families as a critical
program component during their earliest introduc
tion to early intervention services. Transition involves
preparation, planning, and implementation, and it begins
at the initial visit with the family. Part of the service
coordinator’s discussions with each family is about the
program’s beginning and ending, including possible
options available for a child at age three (such as LEA-
operated special education services, community-based
preschool programs, or other community resources).
Service coordinators need a clear understanding of the
locally agreed-upon transition procedures and community
resources that are available to families.