NBPTS Exceptional Needs Specialist Practice Exam

What does an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) focus on?

1. Long-term educational goals for students

2. Planning early intervention services for infants and toddlers

3. Developing employment strategies for older students

4. Assessment of adult support systems

The correct answer is: Planning early intervention services for infants and toddlers

An Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) specifically focuses on the planning and coordination of early intervention services for infants and toddlers, particularly those who have developmental delays or disabilities. The primary aim of an IFSP is to enhance the development of the child and support the family in meeting the child's needs. In this context, the IFSP includes a comprehensive assessment of the child's current abilities, resources available to the family, and both the family's and child’s desired outcomes. It establishes the specific services that will be provided to meet those outcomes, emphasizing a family-centered approach to ensure that the interventions align with the family’s routine and enhance the child’s growth. This focus on the early developmental stages contrasts with long-term educational goals, which typically address older students and their academic trajectories. Developing employment strategies is also aimed at older students, which falls outside the scope of what an IFSP is designed to address. Similarly, while assessing adult support systems may be relevant in different contexts, it does not directly pertain to the purpose of an IFSP, which is primarily centered on infants and toddlers.